Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Franklin Square resident Syed Aman was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport and faces charges for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, more commonly called ISIS.
Federal authorities allege that Aman, 28, who is a United States citizen, planned to travel to Syria to join ISIS by boarding a flight to Doha, Qatar, with the ultimate goal of reaching Syria.
He was scheduled to be in court today before U. S. Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo.
“This arrest thwarts an attempt by the defendant to travel overseas and wage jihad on behalf of ISIS,” U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York said in a news release.
Isis has conducted and inspired terrorist attacks across the world.
He complimented the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force for its role in intercepting this alleged plot.
In 2023 and 2024, Aman allegedly used social media to promote ISIS, attempted financial donations, and made multiple attempts to book flights to Syria to engage in militant activities.
His actions included online declarations of violence, plans to cross from Turkey into Syria, and statements about his readiness to attack law enforcement if detained.
After clearing airport security and attempting to board his flight, FBI agents arrested Aman on Nov. 5, who found a metal pen in his bag, which he allegedly planned to use for self-defense against law enforcement if necessary.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with support from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, continues to work closely to ensure that individuals seeking to support terrorist organizations face swift legal action, officials said.
