Illegal immigrant, alleged ISIS operative, charged with financing terror, gun violations and immigration fraud

A Tajik man named Mansuri Manuchekhri, who was living in the United States illegally, has been charged with attempting to provide support to the Islamic State (ISIS) and its affiliated terrorist groups. The 33-year-old, who resided in Brooklyn, New York, appeared before a federal judge and was ordered to remain in detention. In addition to the terrorism-related charges, Manuchekhri is also accused of possessing firearms while unlawfully present in the U.S. and committing immigration fraud. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that the Department of Justice will not tolerate any form of terrorism. Manuchekhri’s case has drawn attention to the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to identify and disrupt individuals suspected of supporting extremist groups.

According to court documents, Manuchekhri facilitated the transfer of approximately $70,000 to individuals connected to ISIS in Turkey and Syria. Some of this money allegedly went to the families of terrorists who were killed in combat. One of the recipients was reportedly involved in an attack on a church in Istanbul during a morning mass in 2023, for which ISIS-Khorasan Province (ISIS-K) claimed responsibility. U.S. Attorney John Durham stated that Manuchekhri not only sent money to ISIS extremists overseas but also trained with assault rifles at shooting ranges in the U.S. and expressed his readiness to fight for ISIS. These allegations highlight the dual nature of his purported activities, blending financial support with personal preparedness for violent acts.

Manuchekhri entered the U.S. on a non-immigrant tourist visa in June 2016 but overstayed after his visa expired in December 2016. In an attempt to gain legal status, he allegedly paid an American citizen to enter into a sham marriage in March 2017. However, his petition was denied due to insufficient documentation. This immigration fraud charge adds another layer to the case, underscoring the lengths to which he allegedly went to remain in the country illegally. His actions, if proven, would demonstrate a deliberate intent to evade immigration laws while simultaneously supporting a terrorist organization.

The FBI became aware of Manuchekhri in August 2024 after a family member contacted the New York State Terrorism Tips Hotline. The family member expressed concerns that Manuchekhri might commit acts of violence, stating that he had threatened to kill them on multiple occasions. This tip led to an investigation, during which federal prosecutors uncovered compelling evidence of his ties to ISIS. Between December 2021 and April 2023, Manuchekhri sent around $70,000 to individuals linked to ISIS in Turkey and Syria. He also communicated with someone in Turkey who assured him that the money would be distributed to ISIS or ISIS-K members and their families. These financial transactions, coupled with his possession of ISIS propaganda videos and images of himself with guns, paint a concerning picture of his alleged involvement with the terrorist group.

In addition to his financial support for ISIS, Manuchekhri’s personal actions raised red flags. He frequently visited shooting ranges to practice with assault rifles, and his iCloud account contained multiple ISIS propaganda videos and images of him posing with guns. These activities suggest that he was not only providing monetary support to ISIS but was also actively preparing for potential violent acts. The combination of financial and personal involvement indicates a level of commitment to the group’s cause that goes beyond mere sympathy. His actions, if proven, would represent a significant threat to national security.

If convicted of the charges against him, Manuchekhri could face up to 45 years in prison. His case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in identifying and prosecuting individuals who support terrorist organizations. The collaboration between federal agencies and the public, as seen in the tip from a family member, plays a crucial role in preventing such activities. This case also highlights the importance of immigration enforcement and the need for vigilance in detecting and disrupting illegal activities that may threaten public safety. As the legal proceedings continue, Manuchekhri’s fate will depend on the evidence presented and the outcome of his trial.