Growing Concerns Over Islamic State Following U.S. Arrest of Tajik Suspect
Tajik Man Arrested in New York for Allegedly Sending Money to Islamic State
The arrest of a Tajik man in New York charged with sending money to the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group has brought attention to the involvement of citizens of Tajikistan in terrorist activities. Mansuri Manuchekhri, 33, was ordered into custody during his appearance in a federal court in New York this week, according to the Tajik Interior Ministry.
There have been limited statements from Tajik authorities regarding Manuchekhri’s arrest, but the Interior Ministry confirmed that they are investigating the matter. This recent arrest follows the deportation of eight Tajik citizens with alleged IS ties by U.S. authorities and highlights ongoing efforts by the Tajik government to combat religious extremism and terrorism.
The criminal complaint unsealed by U.S. prosecutors alleges that Manuchekhri funneled $70,000 to IS members and relatives of the group’s fighters in Turkey and Syria between December 2021 and April 2023. Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel stated that the defendant supported IS by sending funds overseas to individuals connected to the terrorist group.
Manuchekhiri’s case is part of a trend where Tajik nationals have been linked to terrorist plots and attacks internationally. Around 30 Tajiks have been implicated in IS-related activities outside of Tajikistan since January 2024, including incidents in the United States, Russia, Iran, and Germany.
In Tajikistan itself, there have been efforts to prevent IS-Khorasan (IS-K) attacks within the country. The Prosecutor General announced a rise in terrorism-related crimes in 2024, with convictions related to a plot to poison food during the Navruz celebrations. Additionally, individuals have been jailed in connection with bombings claimed by IS-K.
The government of Tajikistan has launched initiatives such as the Door-To-Door campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of IS propaganda and extremism. These efforts include visits to households, school meetings, and mosque gatherings to educate people, especially youth, about the risks associated with terrorist groups.
While Tajik authorities continue to address the issue of terrorism, critics suggest that focusing on job creation, economic opportunities, and civil liberties may be more effective in preventing the radicalization of disenchanted youth. Nonetheless, the government remains committed to combating extremism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
RFE/RL Tajik Service Correspondent Mahmudjon Rahmatzoda in Khatlon contributed to this report.
