Anton Thulin is a U.S.-designated Swedish member of the Russian Imperial Movement (RIM), an ultranationalist, quasi-paramilitary group based in St. Petersburg, Russia, that seeks to create a “mono-ethnic state” led by a “Russian autocratic monarchy.”“White Supremacy Extremism: The Transnational Rise of the Violent White Supremacist Movement,” Soufan Center, September 2019, https://thesoufancenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Report-by-The-Soufan-Center-White-Supremacy-Extremism-The-Transnational-Rise-of-The-Violent-White-Supremacist-Movement.pdf; Lester Feder, Edgar Mannheimer, and Jane Lytvynenko, “These Swedish Nazis Trained in Russia before Bombing a Center for Asylum Seekers,” BuzzFeed News, July 22, 2017, https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/lesterfeder/these-swedish-nazis-trained-in-russia#.jmj8rBGYv. Thulin previously trained with RIM before assisting in an attempted bombing in Gothenburg in January 2017. Given Thulin’s activities, the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) and Specially Designated National (SDN), respectively, on June 15, 2022.“Designation of Anton Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-anton-thulin-as-a-specially-designated-global-terrorist/; “Specially Designated National List Update,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20220615.

Thulin was formerly a member of the Nordic Resistance Movement (NRM), a transnational, neo-Nazi organization with official chapters operating in Sweden, Finland, and Norway.Øyvind Strømmen, “New report: Neo-Nazis in the North,” Hate Speech International, March 24, 2017, https://www.hate-speech.org/new-report-neo-nazis-in-the-north/. Thulin, along with his NRM associate, Viktor Melin, reportedly left NRM when they were dissatisfied with the leadership for not using violent means to achieve their goals.“US sanctions far-right Swede for links to Russian terror group,” The Local, June 16, 2022, https://www.thelocal.se/20220616/us-slaps-sanctions-far-right-swede-for-links-to-russian-terror-group/. In August 2016, Thulin and Melin traveled to St. Petersburg and received paramilitary training from RIM. RIM’s Partizan paramilitary training reportedly included tutorials in bomb-making.“Designation of Anton Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-anton-thulin-as-a-specially-designated-global-terrorist/.

On January 25, 2017, a bomb failed to detonate at a refugee center in Torslanda, near Gothenburg in Sweden. Melin and Thulin reportedly planted the explosive which was intended to target newly arrived migrants and a left-wing group. Following an investigation by SÄPO—Sweden’s security service—Thulin and Melin were arrested in February and March of 2017, but the exact dates of their arrests were not reported.Jan M. Olsen, “Swedish right-wing extremists guilty of bomb attacks on migrants,” Associated Press, June 17, 2022, https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2017/07/07/swedish-right-wing-extremists-guilty/458311001/.

On July 7, 2017, the Gothenborg District Court found Thulin guilty of providing components to explosives used in the Torslanda attack. Thulin was sentenced to 22 months in prison.Jan M. Olsen, “Swedish right-wing extremists guilty of bomb attacks on migrants,” Associated Press, July 7, 2017, https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2017/07/07/swedish-right-wing-extremists-guilty/458311001/. After his release from prison, Thulin traveled to Poland to receive additional paramilitary training.“US sanctions far-right Swede for links to Russian terror group,” The Local, June 16, 2022, https://www.thelocal.se/20220616/us-slaps-sanctions-far-right-swede-for-links-to-russian-terror-group/. However, on November 7, 2019, Polish security services arrested Thulin on charges of attempting to participate in illegal weapons training.“Swedish right-wing radical to be expelled from Poland,” Associated Press, November 7, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/swedish-wing-radical-expelled-poland-66817208. Thulin was deported back to Sweden shortly afterwards as he was considered a “serious, real, and current threat to security and public order.”“Poland to deport Swedish neo-Nazi,” The Local, November 8, 2019, https://www.thelocal.se/20191108/poland-to-deport-swedish-neo-nazi/.

Given Thulin’s efforts in supporting ultranationalist and white supremacy groups in Russia, Sweden, and Poland, the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Treasury designated Thulin as an SDGT and SDN, respectfully, on June 15, 2022.“Designation of Anton Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-anton-thulin-as-a-specially-designated-global-terrorist/.

Mohammad Naufer is “second emir” of a group of ISIS supporters who call themselves ISIS in Sri Lanka. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the group is responsible for planning and carrying out the April 2019 Easter attacks across Sri Lanka which killed 267 people and injured 500 others.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis. On November 23, 2021, Naufer, along with 24 others, stood trial for their connection to the attacks.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23.

According to media sources, Naufer is one of the founding members of the National Tawheed Jamaat (NTJ), a local Islamist group that reportedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and that Sri Lanka has accused of carrying out the Easter Sunday attacks.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis; “Sri Lankan names Naufar Maulavi as mastermind behind 2019 Easter bombings,” South Asia Monitor, April 7, 2021, https://www.southasiamonitor.org/sri-lanka/sri-lankan-names-naufar-maulavi-mastermind-behind-2019-easter-bombings. According to Sarath Weerasekra, Sri Lanka’s minster of public security, Naufer brought the ideology of ISIS to Sri Lanka in 2014, and in 2016 directed Saharan Hashmin—one of the eight suicide bombers in the April 2019 attacks—towards carrying out extremist activities in the country.“Sri Lankan names Naufar Maulavi as mastermind behind 2019 Easter bombings,” South Asia Monitor, April 7, 2021, https://www.southasiamonitor.org/sri-lanka/sri-lankan-names-naufar-maulavi-mastermind-behind-2019-easter-bombings.

On April 21, 2019, suicide bombers launched a coordinated series of attacks on three Catholic churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, as well as three luxury hotels in Colombo.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. The attacks killed 267 people and wounded 500 others. Most of the victims were from Sri Lanka’s minority Christian community. That evening, an improvised explosive device was defused near Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Police found 87 detonators in a private terminal of the main bus station in Colombo, and a controlled explosion was carried out on a van near the Roman Catholic St. Anthony’s church also in Colombo.Jenni Marsh, Julia Hollingsworth, Bianca Britton and Barbara Starr, “Sri Lanka fears international terror link to Easter Sunday atrocities,” CNN, April 23, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/asia/sri-lanka-investigation-easter-attacks/index.html. Along with countless Sri Lankans, the victims included more than a dozen foreign nationals from the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, India, Portugal, Japan, and Turkey.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html.

Shortly after the attacks, the Sri Lankan government admitted that it had not responded to warnings from U.S. and Indian intelligence agencies about a possible attack.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The alleged ringleader of the attack, Zahran Hashim was a radical Islamist preacher, who was known to the authorities and the local Muslim community. Hashim—who believed that he was following in the footsteps of Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, the Emir of ISIS in Bangladesh—killed himself after detonating an explosive at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi Canadian allegedly masterminded the July 2015 Dhaka attack at the Gulchand Café which killed 29 people. According to media sources, weeks before the attack, India's intelligence service warned Sri Lanka authorities that Zahran was planning an attack on churches and hotels.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

On April 23, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, releasing a video of suspects pledging allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.Deborah Haynes, “Wealthy and well-educated: The bombers behind the Sri Lanka attacks,” Sky News, May 1, 2019, https://news.sky.com/story/wealthy-and-well-educated-the-bombers-behind-the-sri-lanka-attacks-11708206. ISIS also released a statement claiming the attackers were “among the fighters of the Islamic State.” According to media sources, multiple U.S. sources briefed on the investigation believed ISIS was involved in the Sri Lanka attacks in a supportive capacity but were uncertain to what degree.Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339

On January 8, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Naufer, along with Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan and Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed were charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to ISIS. According to the Justice Department, the men were part of a group of ISIS supporters which called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka” who were responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks. As second emir of ISIS in Sri Lanka, Naufer reportedly led the group’s propaganda efforts, recruited others to join ISIS, and led a series of multi-day military-type trainings.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis. Furthermore, the three men allegedly conspired to provide, provided, and attempted to provide material support through services and personnel to ISIS. The men stand accused of serving as ISIS supporters in Sri Lanka seeking to plan and encourage violent attacks to advance ISIS’s goals, obtaining explosives and materials for IEDs, and recruiting other individuals to join ISIS.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis.

On November 23, 2021, Naufer stood trial in Sri Lanka with 24 other men accused of masterminding the 2019 Easter bombings. More than 23,000 charges have been filed against the suspects, and 1,215 witnesses have been called to testify. Among the charges were conspiring to murder, aiding and abetting the attacks, and collecting arms and ammunition. According to the defendants lawyers, the trial is expected to last for years given the large number of charges and witnesses. While all of the suicide bombers who carried out the attacks were killed in the explosions, their associates and relatives stand accused of being involved in planning and masterminding the terrorist attacks.“Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. Along with Naufer, another notable suspect is Yusuf Mohamed Ibrahim, a powerful Sri Lankan businessman whose two sons, Ilham and Inshaf, carried out the Easter Sunday attacks.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23. The trial remains ongoing.

Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed is a member of a group of ISIS supporters who call themselves ISIS in Sri Lanka. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the group is responsible for planning and carrying out the April 2019 Easter attacks across Sri Lanka which killed 267 people and injured 500 others.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis. Moahmed was reportedly arrested in an unspecified Middle Eastern country in June 2019 and was extradited to Sri Lanka following his arrest.“Red Notice leads to arrest of Sri Lanka bombings suspect,” Interpol, April 14, 2019, https://www.interpol.int/en/News-and-Events/News/2019/Red-Notice-leads-to-arrest-of-Sri-Lanka-bombings-suspect. On November 23, 2021, Moahmed and 24 other defendants stood trial for their connection to the attacks.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23.

On April 21, 2019, suicide bombers launched a coordinated series of attacks on three Catholic churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, as well as three luxury hotels in Colombo.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. The attacks killed 267 people and wounded 500 others. Most of the victims were from Sri Lanka’s minority Christian community. That evening, an improvised explosive device was defused near Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Police found 87 detonators in a private terminal of the main bus station in Colombo, and a controlled explosion was carried out on a van near the Roman Catholic St. Anthony’s church also in Colombo.Jenni Marsh, Julia Hollingsworth, Bianca Britton and Barbara Starr, “Sri Lanka fears international terror link to Easter Sunday atrocities,” CNN, April 23, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/asia/sri-lanka-investigation-easter-attacks/index.html. Along with countless Sri Lankans, the victims included more than a dozen foreign nationals from the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, India, Portugal, Japan, and Turkey.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html.

Shortly after the attacks, the Sri Lankan government admitted that it had not responded to warnings from U.S. and Indian intelligence agencies about a possible attack.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The alleged ringleader of the attack, Zahran Hashim was a radical Islamist preacher, who was known to the authorities and the local Muslim community. Hashim—who believed that he was following in the footsteps of Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, the Emir of ISIS in Bangladesh—killed himself after detonating an explosive at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi Canadian allegedly masterminded the July 2015 Dhaka attack at the Gulchand Café which killed 29 people. According to media sources, weeks before the attack, India's intelligence service warned Sri Lanka authorities that Zahran was planning an attack on churches and hotels.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

On April 23, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, releasing a video of suspects pledging allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.Deborah Haynes, “Wealthy and well-educated: The bombers behind the Sri Lanka attacks,” Sky News, May 1, 2019, https://news.sky.com/story/wealthy-and-well-educated-the-bombers-behind-the-sri-lanka-attacks-11708206. ISIS also released a statement claiming the attackers were “among the fighters of the Islamic State.” According to media sources, multiple U.S. sources briefed on the investigation believed ISIS was involved in the Sri Lanka attacks in a supportive capacity but were uncertain to what degree.Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339.

Moahmed was arrested in the Middle East sometime in June 2019, and on June 19 was extradited to Sri Lanka following his arrest.“Red Notice leads to arrest of Sri Lanka bombings suspect,” Interpol, April 14, 2019, https://www.interpol.int/en/News-and-Events/News/2019/Red-Notice-leads-to-arrest-of-Sri-Lanka-bombings-suspect. On January 8, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Moahmed, along with Mohammad Naufer and Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan were charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to ISIS. According to the Justice Department, the men were part of a group of ISIS supporters which called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka” who were responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks. Moahmed allegedly executed a police officer to steal their firearms, shot a suspected informant, and scouted a location for a separate terrorist attack. Furthermore, the three men allegedly conspired to provide, provided, and attempted to provide material support through services and personnel to ISIS. The men stand accused of serving as ISIS supporters in Sri Lanka seeking to plan and encourage violent attacks to advance ISIS’s goals, obtaining explosives and materials for IEDs, and recruiting other individuals to join ISIS.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis.

On November 23, 2021, Moahmed and 24 other men accused of masterminding the 2019 Easter bombings began their trial in Sri Lanka. More than 23,000 charges have been filed against the suspects, and 1,215 witnesses have been called to testify. Among the charges were conspiring to murder, aiding, and abetting the attacks, and collecting arms and ammunition. According to the defendants lawyers, the trial is expected to last for years given the large number of charges and witnesses. While all of the suicide bombers who carried out the attacks were killed in the explosions, their associates and relatives stand accused of being involved in planning and masterminding the terrorist attacks.“Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The trial remains ongoing.

Yusuf Mohamed Ibrahim is the father of Ilham and Imsath Ibrahim, two of the suicide bombers who carried out the Easter Sunday attacks across Sri Lanka on April 21, 2019.Samanth Subramanian, “Two Wealthy Sri Lankan Brothers Became Suicide Bombers. But Why?,” New York Times, February 24, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/02/magazine/sri-lanka-brothers-bombing.html. The series of bombings targeted three churches and three luxury hotels, killing 267 people and wounding 500 others.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. Ibrahim’s sons died in the attacks, and Ibrahim was arrested a couple of days later on charges in connection to the attacks. On November 23, 2021, Ibrahim went on trial with 24 other men accused of masterminding the bombings.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23.

Ibrahim reportedly came to Colombo as a boy from a village and eventually became one of Sri Lanka’s leading spice exporters. The company built a fortune and owned land all over Colombo.Samanth Subramanian, “Two Wealthy Sri Lankan Brothers Became Suicide Bombers. But Why?,” New York Times, February 24, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/02/magazine/sri-lanka-brothers-bombing.html.

According to media sources, Ibrahim’s son Ilham openly expressed extremist ideologies and had gone to meetings of National Thowheed Jamath, a local Islamist group suspected of involvement in planning the attacks. Ibrahim’s other son, was reportedly more moderate and had been generous to struggling households in his community.“Probe into Sri Lanka blasts reveals dark secrets of millionaire businessman Mohammed Yusuf Ibrahim's family,” Reuters, April 25, 2019, https://www.firstpost.com/world/probe-into-sri-lanka-blasts-reveals-dark-secrets-of-millionaire-businessman-mohammed-yusuf-ibrahims-family-6514391.html.

On April 21, 2019, suicide bombers launched a coordinated series of attacks on three Catholic churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, as well as three luxury hotels in Colombo.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. The attacks killed 267 people and wounded 500 others. Most of the victims were from Sri Lanka’s minority Christian community. That evening, an improvised explosive device was defused near Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Police found 87 detonators in a private terminal of the main bus station in Colombo, and a controlled explosion was carried out on a van near the Roman Catholic St. Anthony’s church also in Colombo.Jenni Marsh, Julia Hollingsworth, Bianca Britton and Barbara Starr, “Sri Lanka fears international terror link to Easter Sunday atrocities,” CNN, April 23, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/asia/sri-lanka-investigation-easter-attacks/index.html. Along with countless Sri Lankans, the victims included more than a dozen foreign nationals from the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, India, Portugal, Japan, and Turkey.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html.

Shortly after the attacks, the Sri Lankan government admitted that it had not responded to warnings from U.S. and Indian intelligence agencies about a possible attack.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The alleged ringleader of the attack, Zahran Hashim was an Islamist preacher, who was known to the authorities and the local Muslim community. Hashim—who believed that he was following in the footsteps of Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, the emir of ISIS in Bangladesh—killed himself after detonating an explosive at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi Canadian allegedly masterminded the July 2015 attack at the Gulchand Café in Dhaka, Bangladesh which killed 29 people. According to media sources, weeks before the attack, India’s intelligence service warned Sri Lanka authorities that Zahran was planning an attack on churches and hotels.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

On April 23, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, releasing a video of suspects pledging allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.Deborah Haynes, “Wealthy and well-educated: The bombers behind the Sri Lanka attacks,” Sky News, May 1, 2019, https://news.sky.com/story/wealthy-and-well-educated-the-bombers-behind-the-sri-lanka-attacks-11708206. ISIS also released a statement claiming the attackers were “among the fighters of the Islamic State.” According to media sources, multiple U.S. sources briefed on the investigation believed ISIS was involved in the Sri Lanka attacks in a supportive capacity but were uncertain to what degree.Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339.

Ibrahim was arrested on April 25, 2019, on suspicion of aiding and abetting his sons.“BREAKING: Sri Lanka’s Cinnamon Grand Hotel bomber was previously arrested and released, official says,” CNN, April 25, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/asia/live-news/sri-lanka-bombings-latest-day-4-intl-dle/h_7266c181fa76fafe7aca0b779ef577b3. The perpetrators reportedly came from the top levels of Sri Lankan society. On November 23, 2021, Ibrahim stood trial with 24 other men accused of masterminding the 2019 Easter bombings. More than 23,000 charges have been filed against the suspects, and 1,215 witnesses have been called to testify. Among the charges were conspiring to murder, aiding and abetting the attacks, and collecting arms and ammunition. According to the defendants lawyers, the trial is expected to last for years given the large number of charges and witnesses. While all of the suicide bombers who carried out the attacks were killed in the explosions, their associates and relatives stand accused of being involved in planning and masterminding the terrorist attacks.“Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. Along with Ibrahim, another notable suspect is Mohammad Naufer, a Sri Lankan national who officials say masterminded the attack and is linked to ISIS.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23. The trial remains ongoing.

Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury was the Canadian-Bangladeshi leader of ISIS-Bangladesh and the mastermind behind the July 1, 2016 Dhaka café attack and the July 7, 2016 shooting massacre in Sholakia. The Dhaka attack killed 28 people and wounded 26 others, while the shooting massacre killed four and injured several others.Lizzie Dearden, “Eid Bangladesh attack: At least four killed in bomb and shooting attack at country's largest Eid prayer gathering,” Independent, July 7, 2016, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/eid-bangladesh-attack-bomb-shooting-killed-death-prayers-police-eidgah-sholakia-isis-terror-a7124431.html; Lizzie Dearden, “Isis Bangladesh attack ‘mastermind’ identified as former student from Canada killed in police raid,” Independent, August 26, 2016, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/isis-bangladesh-dhaka-cafe-attack-mastermind-identified-tamim-chowdhury-canada-killed-in-police-raid-a7212671.html. Chowdhury was killed in a shootout between Bangladeshi forces and ISIS militants in Dhaka in August 2016.Lizzie Dearden, “Isis Bangladesh attack ‘mastermind’ identified as former student from Canada killed in police raid,” Independent, August 26, 2016, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/isis-bangladesh-dhaka-cafe-attack-mastermind-identified-tamim-chowdhury-canada-killed-in-police-raid-a7212671.html.

Chowdhury’s parents settled in Ontario, Canada shortly after Bangladesh’s independence war in 1971.Tamara Khandaker, “ISIS just identified a dead leader by name — and that's unusual,” Vice News, October 6, 2016, https://www.vice.com/en/article/3kw9dv/isis-just-identified-a-dead-leader-by-name-and-thats-unusual. Chowdhury reportedly attended the University of Windsor and graduated with a degree in chemistry in 2011.Dan Taekamea, “Terror suspect was a 'real bright kid,' former teacher says,” Windsor Star, August 29, 2016, https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/chowdhurys-time-in-windsor. During the period between 2009 and 2012, media sources report that Chowdhury allegedly became radicalized. In 2013, Chowdhury traveled Syria to join ISIS.Angshuman Choudhury, “Mapping the Dhaka Gulshan Attack: Who was Tamim Chowdhary?,” Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, October 4, 2016, http://www.ipcs.org/comm_select.php?articleNo=5143.

In October 2013, Chowdhury traveled to Bangladesh where he established himself as the ISIS “coordinator” in the country. According to an interview published in the August 2016 issue of Dabiq, ISIS’s propaganda magazine, Chowdhury’s agenda was to execute a series of terror attacks in Bangladesh and link them to ISIS. Chowdhury quickly established himself within the Islamist extremist community in the country and led a local group called New Jamat ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). The group was a faction of the old JMB—a local jihadist group that rose to prominence in 2005 that violently targeted secular groups and Bangladeshi minorities—and served as Bangladesh’s link to ISIS. According to the Dabiq article, Chowdhury was referred to as the “Amir of the Khalifa’s soldiers in Bengal.” As the emir of the group, Chowdhury served as the overseer for arms procurement, recruitment, and financial mobilization.“Local ‘IS chief’ Tamim Chowdhury prime architect of Dhaka cafe attack, say police,” Indian Express, July 30, 2016, https://indianexpress.com/article/world/world-news/dhaka-cafe-attack-islamic-state-2944858/; “Bangladeshi-Canadian named as Dhaka cafe attack mastermind,” Indian Express, July 30, 2016, https://indianexpress.com/article/world/world-news/bangladeshi-canadian-named-as-dhaka-cafe-attack-mastermind-2944778/; Kamran Reza Chowdhury, “IS Has ‘Contacts’ With Local Militants, Top US Diplomat Tells Bangladeshi Officials,” Benar News, August 29, 2016, https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/bengali/kerry-bangladesh-08292016161203.html.

On July 1, 2016, Chowdhury, along with several other gunmen, stormed into the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka, detonating explosives and taking 35 hostages. At least 28 people were killed and 26 others were wounded. The attackers killed 20 hostages, including nine Italians, seven Japanese, three Bangladeshis, one Indian, and one American. About 10 hours after the gunmen took over the cafe, 100 Bangladeshi commandos stormed the restaurant and managed to rescue 13 people.Aditya Kalra, Serajul Quadir, Ruma Paul, “Bangladesh gunmen made no demands, IS not involved – minister,” Reuters, July 2, 2016, https://www.reuters.com/article/bangladesh-attack/bangladesh-gunmen-made-no-demands-is-not-involved-minister-idINKCN0ZJ01T; David Caplan and Emily Shapiro, “20 Hostages Killed in Bangladesh Restaurant Attack, ISIS Claims Responsibility,” ABC News, July 2, 2016, https://abcnews.go.com/International/shooting-hostage-situation-underway-bangladesh/story?id=40283510. Bangladesh Police Chief Shahidul Hoque stated in an interview that Chowdhury was the mastermind behind the attack. Chowdhury allegedly recruited, trained, and advised the perpetrators, while also providing them weapons and explosives.Tamara Khandaker, “ISIS just identified a dead leader by name — and that's unusual,” Vice News, October 6, 2016, https://www.vice.com/en/article/3kw9dv/isis-just-identified-a-dead-leader-by-name-and-thats-unusual.

The day after the attack, ISIS claimed responsibility for the massacre, stating the group targeted citizens of the “crusader countries.” On July 3, 2016, the ISIS-affiliated Amaq news agency published photos of five of the perpetrators holding assault rifles and posing in front of black ISIS flags.“Hostage crisis leaves 28 dead in Bangladesh diplomatic zone,” Associated Press, July 2, 2016, https://apnews.com/article/631cff7370dc467782ef5b5fc4aeed56. In another ISIS-affiliated publication, Rumiyah magazine, Chowdhury allegedly authored an article describing the Dhaka attack, claiming the restaurant was chosen because it was a “sinister place” where “crusaders would gather to drink alcohol and commit vices through the night.”Tamara Khandaker, “ISIS just identified a dead leader by name — and that's unusual,” Vice News, October 6, 2016, https://www.vice.com/en/article/3kw9dv/isis-just-identified-a-dead-leader-by-name-and-thats-unusual.

Bangladeshi forces were unable to apprehend Chowdhury after the Dhaka attack, and on July 7, 2016, militants detonated an explosive and carried out a shooting massacre at the largest gathering for Eid prayers in Sholakia, Bangladesh. The explosion and the shooting attack killed at least four and injured several. Following the attack, ISIS claimed responsibility, and according to Bangladeshi authorities, Chowdhury was the mastermind behind the bombing and shooting.Lizzie Dearden, “Isis Bangladesh attack ‘mastermind’ identified as former student from Canada killed in police raid,” Independent, August 27, 2016, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/isis-bangladesh-dhaka-cafe-attack-mastermind-identified-tamim-chowdhury-canada-killed-in-police-raid-a7212671.html; “2016 Report on International Religious Freedom: Bangladesh,” U.S. Department of State, 2016, https://www.state.gov/reports/2016-report-on-international-religious-freedom/bangladesh/.

On August 27, 2016, Bangladeshi security forces raided a building housing extremists in Dhaka. After an hour-long gun battle, Chowdhury was killed alongside two other men.Lizzie Dearden, “Isis Bangladesh attack ‘mastermind’ identified as former student from Canada killed in police raid,” Independent, August 27, 2016, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/isis-bangladesh-dhaka-cafe-attack-mastermind-identified-tamim-chowdhury-canada-killed-in-police-raid-a7212671.html; “Bangladesh 'cafe attack planner killed' in police raid,” BBC News, August 27, 2016, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37202152.

Zahran Hashim was a Sri Lankan radical Islamist preacher who was the mastermind of the April 21, 2019, Easter Sunday attacks in Sri Lanka.“Sri Lanka bombings ringleader died in hotel attack, president says,” BBC News, April 26, 2019, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-48062841. The series of bombings targeted three churches and three luxury hotels, killing 267 people and wounding 500 others.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642.

Hashim hailed from Kattankudy, a coastal town in Sri Lanka. Hashim, along with his brothers, were allegedly sent by his father to a madrassa where he was taught strict interpretations of Islam. Although Hashim showcased skill of the teachings of the Quran, he reportedly was often at odds with his teachers.Hannah Beech, “Sri Lankan Accused of Leading Attacks Preached Slaughter. Many Dismissed Him,” New York Times, April 25, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/25/world/asia/sri-lanka-attacks-mastermind.html?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage.

In 2014, Hashim started the National Tawheed Jamaat (NTJ), a local Islamist group that complied with the fundamentalist teachings of the Wahhabi tradition of Islam. Hashim reportedly later founded his own mosque in Kattankudy—allegedly, per media sources, with funding from India. However, the group never received religious certification. According to media sources, by 2017, Hashim and his followers began targeting a Sufi sect—a strain of Islam that follows a mystical form of the faith—in Kattankudy, accusing its members of being infidels. Additionally, it was reported that in one instance, Hashim violently charged towards Sufis with a sword. The Sufis were reportedly handing out packets of rice to the poor, but Hashim interpreted the actions as trying to bribe hungry converts.Hannah Beech, “Sri Lankan Accused of Leading Attacks Preached Slaughter. Many Dismissed Him,” New York Times, April 25, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/25/world/asia/sri-lanka-attacks-mastermind.html?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage.

Hashim gained further notoriety in 2018 when he, along with a group of his followers, defaced several Buddhist statues in central Sri Lanka. According to media sources, Hashim claimed that “Islam prohibits idol worship so statues should be destroyed.” Despite the public outrage, Zahran was not arrested.James Griffiths and Sam Kiley, Sri Lanka bombers’ mentor is dead, but his memory still stokes fear,” CNN, April 26, 2019, https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/26/asia/sri-lanka-suicide-bomber-intl/index.html. Hashim then built a following on YouTube where he posted videos promoting violence against non-Muslims. In the days prior to the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, Hashim appeared in a video released by ISIS in which seven men pledged allegiance to the extremist group. Media sources suggest some of the men were the Easter Sunday suicide bombers. However, Hashim was the only individual to show his face in the video. It is unreported if Hashim had been in direct contact with ISIS or if he only pledged allegiance to the group.“Sri Lanka bombings ringleader died in hotel attack, president says,” BBC News, April 26, 2019, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-48062841.

On April 21, 2019, Hashim, along with seven other suicide bombers, launched a coordinated series of attacks on three Catholic churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, as well as three luxury hotels in Colombo.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” April 24, 2019, New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. The attacks killed 267 people and wounded 500 others. Most of the victims were from Sri Lanka’s minority Christian community. That evening, an improvised explosive device was defused near Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Police found 87 detonators in a private terminal of the main bus station in Colombo, and a controlled explosion was carried out on a van near the Roman Catholic St. Anthony’s church also in Colombo.Jenni Marsh, Julia Hollingsworth, Bianca Britton and Barbara Starr, “Sri Lanka fears international terror link to Easter Sunday atrocities,” CNN, April 23, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/asia/sri-lanka-investigation-easter-attacks/index.html. Along with countless Sri Lankans, the victims included more than a dozen foreign nationals from the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, India, Portugal, Japan, and Turkey.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” April 24, 2019, New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. Hashim killed himself after detonating an explosive at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

Shortly after the attacks, the Sri Lankan government admitted that it had not responded to warnings from U.S. and Indian intelligence agencies about a possible attack.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. According to Sri Lankan officials, Hashim was the ringleader of the attack. Media sources reported that Hashim allegedly believed that he was following in the footsteps of Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, the emir of ISIS in Bangladesh. Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi Canadian allegedly masterminded the July 2015 attack at the Gulchand Café in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which killed 29 people. According to media sources, weeks before the attack, India’s intelligence service warned Sri Lanka authorities that Zahran was planning an attack on churches and hotels.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

On April 23, 2019, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, releasing a video of suspects pledging allegiance to then-ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.Deborah Haynes, “Wealthy and well-educated: The bombers behind the Sri Lanka attacks,” Sky News, May 1, 2019, https://news.sky.com/story/wealthy-and-well-educated-the-bombers-behind-the-sri-lanka-attacks-11708206. ISIS also released a statement claiming the attackers were “among the fighters of the Islamic State.” According to media sources, multiple U.S. sources briefed on the investigation believed ISIS was involved in the Sri Lanka attacks in a supportive capacity but were uncertain to what degree.Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339.

Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan is a weapons manufacturer for a group of ISIS supporters who call themselves ISIS in Sri Lanka. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the group is responsible for planning and carrying out the April 2019 Easter attacks across Sri Lanka which killed 267 people and injured 500 others.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis. On November 23, 2021, Riskan and 24 other defendants stood trial for their connection to the attacks.Uditha Jayasinghe, “Sri Lanka begins trial of 25 accused of plotting 2019 Easter bombings,” Reuters, November 23, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/sri-lanka-begins-trial-25-accused-plotting-2019-easter-bombings-2021-11-23.

On April 21, 2019, suicide bombers launched a coordinated series of attacks on three Catholic churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, as well as three luxury hotels in Colombo.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html. The attacks killed 267 people and wounded 500 others. Most of the victims were from Sri Lanka’s minority Christian community. That evening, an improvised explosive device was defused near Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Police found 87 detonators in a private terminal of the main bus station in Colombo, and a controlled explosion was carried out on a van near the Roman Catholic St. Anthony’s church also in Colombo.Jenni Marsh, Julia Hollingsworth, Bianca Britton and Barbara Starr, “Sri Lanka fears international terror link to Easter Sunday atrocities,” CNN, April 23, 2019, https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/asia/sri-lanka-investigation-easter-attacks/index.html. Along with countless Sri Lankans, the victims included more than a dozen foreign nationals from the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, India, Portugal, Japan, and Turkey.“Sri Lanka Attacks: What We Know and Don’t Know,” New York Times, April 24, 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/24/world/asia/sri-lanka-easter-bombing-attacks.html.

Shortly after the attacks, the Sri Lankan government admitted that it had not responded to warnings from U.S. and Indian intelligence agencies about a possible attack.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html; Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339; “Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The alleged ringleader of the attack, Zahran Hashim was a radical Islamist preacher, who was known to the authorities and the local Muslim community. Hashim—who believed that he was following in the footsteps of Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, the Emir of ISIS in Bangladesh—killed himself after detonating an explosive at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi Canadian allegedly masterminded the July 2015 Dhaka attack at the Gulchand Café which killed 29 people. According to media sources, weeks before the attack, India's intelligence service warned Sri Lanka authorities that Zahran was planning an attack on churches and hotels.Iqbal Athas and Helen Regan, “Sri Lanka Easter bombings investigation calls for former President to be prosecuted,” CNN, February 24, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/24/asia/sri-lanka-easter-attack-report-sirisena-intl-hnk/index.html.

On April 23, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, releasing a video of suspects pledging allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.Deborah Haynes, “Wealthy and well-educated: The bombers behind the Sri Lanka attacks,” Sky News, May 1, 2019, https://news.sky.com/story/wealthy-and-well-educated-the-bombers-behind-the-sri-lanka-attacks-11708206. ISIS also released a statement claiming the attackers were “among the fighters of the Islamic State.” According to media sources, multiple U.S. sources briefed on the investigation believed ISIS was involved in the Sri Lanka attacks in a supportive capacity but were uncertain to what degree.Morgan Winsor and Dragana Jovanovic, “ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka Easter bombings that killed over 350,” ABC News, April 23, 2019, https://abcnews.go.com/International/isis-claims-responsibility-sri-lanka-easter-bombings-killed/story?id=62570339

On January 8, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Riskan, along with Mohammad Naufer and Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed, were charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to ISIS. According to the Justice Department, the men were part of a group of ISIS supporters which called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka” who were responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks. Riskan allegedly helped manufacture the IEDs used in the Easter attacks.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis Furthermore, the three men allegedly conspired to provide, provided, and attempted to provide material support through services and personnel to ISIS. The men stand accused of serving as ISIS supporters in Sri Lanka seeking to plan and encourage violent attacks to advance ISIS’s goals, obtaining explosives and materials for IEDs, and recruiting other individuals to join ISIS.“Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS,” U.S. Department of Justice, January 8, 2021, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/three-foreign-nationals-charged-conspiring-provide-material-support-isis

On November 23, 2021, Riskan, along with 24 other men accused of masterminding the 2019 Easter bombings, began their trial in Sri Lanka. More than 23,000 charges have been filed against the suspects, and 1,215 witnesses have been called to testify. Among the charges were conspiring to murder, aiding and abetting the attacks, and collecting arms and ammunition. According to the defendants’ lawyers, the trial is expected to last for years given the large number of charges and witnesses. While all of the suicide bombers who carried out the attacks were killed in the explosions, their associates and relatives stand accused of being involved in planning and masterminding the terrorist attacks.“Sri Lanka attacks: 23,000 charges filed against suspects as trial begins,” BBC News, November 24, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-59397642. The trial remains ongoing.

Rangzieb Ahmed is a British-Pakistani operative for al-Qaeda. Ahmed is the first person to be convicted in the United Kingdom of directing terrorism. A U.K. court sentenced Ahmed to life imprisonment in December 2008 for heading a three man al-Qaeda cell in Dubai preparing to commit mass murder in South Africa.Flora Thompson, “Parole Board to decide whether to release terror boss,” Evening Standard, June 9, 2021, https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/parole-board-rochdale-muslim-pakistani-mi5-b939706.html; “RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf; Sadie Gray, “British Muslim aborted terror plot after al-Qaida chief's death, court hears,” Guardian, September 25, 2008, https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2008/sep/25/1.

Born in the U.K., Ahmed’s family moved to Pakistani Kashmir when he was around seven or eight. Ahmed was later abandoned by his father, leaving Ahmed in Pakistan, where he later got a job on a farm. When Ahmed was 18, he was arrested in Indian Kashmir for fighting with the group Harkat ul-Mujahideen, an al-Qaeda linked militant group focused on waging jihad against Indian forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Although Ahmed was never formally charged, he spent seven years in jail in India before being accused of illegally crossing the border from Pakistani Kashmir into Indian Kashmir. In May 2001, Ahmed was released.Duncan Gardham, “Al-Qaeda terror trial: Rangzieb Ahmed was highest ranking al-Qaeda operative in Britain,” Telegraph, December 18, 2008, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/3832366/Al-Qaeda-terror-trial-Rangzieb-Ahmed-was-highest-ranking-al-Qaeda-operative-in-Britain.html.

Ahmed reportedly moved back to the United Kingdom following his release, where his brother claimed he “looked a bit disturbed…we knew the Indian authorities had tortured him.”Duncan Gardham, “Al-Qaeda terror trial: Rangzieb Ahmed was highest ranking al-Qaeda operative in Britain,” Telegraph, December 18, 2008, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/3832366/Al-Qaeda-terror-trial-Rangzieb-Ahmed-was-highest-ranking-al-Qaeda-operative-in-Britain.html. Ahmed spent a few years in the U.K. and in December 2005, Ahmed reportedly traveled to Dubai where he headed a three-man cell seeking to launch an attack in South Africa. However, the plot was aborted when a member of the operation, Hamza Rabia—the alleged number three in al-Qaeda at the time—was killed in a U.S. missile strike.Sadie Gray, “British Muslim aborted terror plot after al-Qaida chief's death, court hears,” Guardian, September 25, 2008, https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2008/sep/25/1. After the failed plot, Ahmed returned to the U.K. before relocating again to Pakistan on January 16, 2006.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf; Sadie Gray, “British Muslim aborted terror plot after al-Qaida chief's death, court hears,” Guardian, September 25, 2008, https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2008/sep/25/1. After his arrival, on August 20, 2006, Ahmed was arrested for terrorism offenses by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency.Dan Sabbagh, “MI5 colluded in Pakistan's torture of British terrorist, court hears,” Guardian, October 27, 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/oct/27/mi5-colluded-in-pakistans-torture-of-british-terrorist-court-hears; “RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf.

According to Ahmed, on September 12, 2006, he was seen by agents from either MI5 or MI6 who allegedly subjected him to torture.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf. Ahmed claimed that he was beaten and had his fingernails ripped out.Dominic Casciani, “'Torture' man wins appeal right,” BBC News, June 30, 2010, https://www.bbc.com/news/10465638. Ahmed was detained until September 7, 2007, when he was deported from Pakistan back to the United Kingdom.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf.

Ahmed was arrested upon arrival at Heathrow Airport in London, where he was charged with directing the activities of an organization commissioning acts of terrorism.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf. On September 19, 2007, Ahmed appeared before the City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court where he was also charged with possessing three books containing information related to preparing an act of terrorism. According to investigators, Ahmed held three diaries that contained details and phone numbers of key al-Qaeda operatives written in invisible ink. According to media sources, Ahmed allegedly plotted to commit acts of terrorism and obtained al-Qaeda-related documents sometime between April 22, 2004 and August 24, 2006.“Man charged with terror offences,” BBC News, September 19, 2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7002132.stm. At some point between 2006 and 2007, Ahmed was also charged with possessing a rucksack containing traces of explosive material.“Man charged with terror offences,” BBC News, September 19, 2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7002132.stm.

On December 19, 2008, the Crown Court at Manchester sentenced Ahmed to life imprisonment with a minimum term of ten years for planning “mass murder attacks.”“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf; Flora Thompson, “Parole Board to decide whether to release terror boss,” Evening Standard, June 9, 2021, https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/parole-board-rochdale-muslim-pakistani-mi5-b939706.html; Mario Ledwith, “Judge rules that torture claims by Al Qaeda mastermind MUST be made public as Government loses secrecy fight,” Daily Mail, October 27, 2020, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8886941/Judge-rules-torture-claims-Al-Qaeda-mastermind-public-UK-loses-secrecy-bid.html. In light of Ahmed’s allegations that he was tortured by MI5 agents while detained in Pakistan, on August 12, 2009, Ahmed issued proceedings against the Director General of MI5 and five other defendants claiming damages for false imprisonment, assault, battery, misfeasance in public office, negligence, and breach of human rights. However, the appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal Criminal Division (CACD) on February 25, 2011.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf. Ahmed sought to appeal to the Supreme Court, but his appeal was once again refused on June 23, 2011.“RANGZIEB AHMED Claimant - and - (1) DIRECTOR GENERAL OF SECURITY SERVICE (2) CHIEF OF THE SECRET INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (3) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN, COMMONWEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS Defendants (4) SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (5) HER MAJESTY'S ATTORNEY -GENERAL (6) CHIEF CONSTABLE OF GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE,” Royal Courts of Justice, December 16, 2020, https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Ahmed-v-DG-of-SS-and-Ors-FINAL.pdf.

On June 9, 2021, the Parole Board held a hearing to determine whether Ahmed could be freed from jail.Flora Thompson, “Parole Board to decide whether to release terror boss,” Evening Standard, June 9, 2021, https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/parole-board-rochdale-muslim-pakistani-mi5-b939706.html. However, on November 1, 2021, the board turned down Ahmed’s parole bid, claiming “releasing him was still too risky.” Ahmed remains detained at Buckley Hall Prison in Greater Manchester.Nick Parker, “PAROLE REJECTED Britain’s top al-Qaeda terror chief Rangzieb Ahmed has parole bid turned down,” Sun, November 1, 2021, https://www.the-sun.com/news/3978540/top-al-qaeda-rangzieb-ahmed-parole-bid-turned-down-accusing-guards-racism/.

Espen Andersen Braathen is the Danish perpetrator of the October 13, 2021 attack in Kongsberg, Norway.“Norway: Bow-and-arrow attack victims likely stabbed to death,” Associated Press, October 18, 2021, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/norway-bow-arrow-attack-victims-stabbed-death-80642307. Braathen—who used a bow and arrow, as well as stabbing weapons to carry out the attack—killed five and injured three others before being apprehended by police.Vasco Cotovio, James Frater and Lianne Kolirin, “Suspect charged after 5 killed in bow and arrow attack in Norway, police say,” CNN, October 14, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/13/europe/kongsberg-norway-attack-intl/index.html; “Norway: Bow-and-arrow attack victims likely stabbed to death,” Associated Press, October 18, 2021, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/norway-bow-arrow-attack-victims-stabbed-death-80642307.

According to police, Braathen, who is a convert to Islam, has had a history of being “in and out of” health institutions.“Norway Bow-and-Arrow Attack Suspect Transferred to Health Service,” Voice of America, October 15, 2021, https://www.voanews.com/a/norway-bow-and-arrow-suspect-facing-custody-hearing/6271854.html. Although a Danish citizen, Braathen lived in Kongsberg for most of his life and had been convicted several times in the past.“Norway Bow-and-Arrow Attack Suspect Transferred to Health Service,” Voice of America, October 15, 2021, https://www.voanews.com/a/norway-bow-and-arrow-suspect-facing-custody-hearing/6271854.html. Braathen was convicted of burglary and cannabis possession in 2012. Furthermore, in 2017, a friend flagged videos to law enforcement that Braathen posted online. In the videos, Braathen confirmed he was a Muslim and that he was a “messenger” with a “warning” and added that “the time has come.” According to media sources, it is unclear how authorities responded to Braathen’s videos or whether they continued to monitor him.“Espen Andersen Braathen: What we know so far about suspected Norway bow and arrow killer,” Sky News, October 15, 2021, https://news.sky.com/story/espen-andersen-brathen-what-we-know-so-far-about-suspected-norway-bow-and-arrow-killer-12433780; “Suspect in the Norway bow-and-arrow attacks faces court hearing,” Associated Press, October 15, 2021, https://www.npr.org/2021/10/15/1046282373/suspect-in-the-norway-bow-and-arrow-attacks-faces-court-hearing.

In 2020, Braathen reportedly threatened to kill one of his parents and then refused to leave their home. A court then granted a six-month restraining order for Braathen to stay away from his parents. Upon investigation of the incident, police discovered a Colt revolver left by Braathen and concluded that Braathen was a potential risk to his family.“Espen Andersen Braathen: What we know so far about suspected Norway bow and arrow killer,” Sky News, October 15, 2021, https://news.sky.com/story/espen-andersen-brathen-what-we-know-so-far-about-suspected-norway-bow-and-arrow-killer-12433780.

On October 13, 2021, Braathen carried a bow and arrow as well as stabbing weapons into a Co-op supermarket and other locations in Kongsberg. According to police, Braathen randomly selected victims and subsequently used arrows to wound his victims before stabbing them.“Norway: Bow-and-arrow attack victims likely stabbed to death,” Associated Press, October 18, 2021, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/norway-bow-arrow-attack-victims-stabbed-death-80642307. Braathen killed five and injured three victims before being apprehended by police.“Norway: Bow-and-arrow attack victims likely stabbed to death,” Associated Press, October 18, 2021, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/norway-bow-arrow-attack-victims-stabbed-death-80642307. Police believe Braathen acted alone, but revealed the attack would be treated as an act of terror as the suspect had converted to Islam and was previously in contact with police due to concerns related to radicalization. Given the seriousness of the incident, the police in Norway—who do not normally carry firearms but do have access—were given a temporary order to carry firearms as a precaution.James Frater and Laura Smith-Spark, “Suspect in Norway attack named as police say they're treating it as terrorism,” CNN, October 14, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/14/europe/norway-kongsberg-attack-intl/index.html;  Vasco Cotovio, James Frater and Lianne Kolirin, “Suspect charged after 5 killed in bow and arrow attack in Norway, police say,” CNN, October 14, 2021, https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/13/europe/kongsberg-norway-attack-intl/index.html.

Following the attack, media sources reported that Braathen’s neighbors had previously seen Braathen practice “brutal” martial arts in his garden as well as train with weapons such as a club or baton.“Espen Andersen Braathen: What we know so far about suspected Norway bow and arrow killer,” Sky News, October 15, 2021, https://news.sky.com/story/espen-andersen-brathen-what-we-know-so-far-about-suspected-norway-bow-and-arrow-killer-12433780. According to investigators, Braathen acknowledged killing the victims. Following an assessment of his mental health situation, on October 14, 2021, Braathen was transferred into the care of health services. The next day, a court ruled that Braathen could be held up for up to four weeks in pre-trial detention.“Norway Bow-and-Arrow Attack Suspect Transferred to Health Service,” Voice of America, October 15, 2021, https://www.voanews.com/a/norway-bow-and-arrow-suspect-facing-custody-hearing/6271854.html.

Ali Harbi Ali is the attacker who stabbed to death British parliamentarian David Amess on October 15, 2021.Peter Stubley, “Ali Harbi Ali: What we know about suspect in murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Independent (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/amess-murder-mp-ali-harbi-ali-b1939934.html; Peter Nicholls and Ben Makori, “UK PM Johnson visits church where lawmaker stabbed to death,” Reuters, October 16, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-pm-johnson-visits-church-where-lawmaker-was-stabbed-death-2021-10-16/. According to initial investigations, Ali acted alone. Ali reportedly targeted Amess because of his votes in favor of airstrikes in Syria.“ISIS supporter found guilty of killing British lawmaker David Amess,” Associated Press, April 11, 2022, https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/britain-david-amess-killing-verdict-1.6415564. According to Ali’s close friends and family, Ali became radicalized after watching videos of extremist preacher Anjem Choudary.Isaac Crowson, Tom Wells, Nick Pisa, and Mike Sullivan, “TWISTED BY HATE Sir David Amess murder suspect ‘radicalised after watching YouTube videos of hate preacher Anjem Choudary,’” Sun (London), last updated October 18, 2021, https://www.the-sun.com/news/3876488/david-amess-murder-suspect-radicalise-anjem-choudary/. Ali reportedly waived his right to silence after his arrest and admitted to the attack.Michael Hamilton, Nick Pisa, Mike Sullivan, Tom Wells, and Ryan Sabey, “‘BLANK STARE’ Sir David Amess killer was ‘dead behind the eyes’ after attack, on terror alert list and had extremist material on phone,” Sun (London), October 16, 2021, https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/16443571/mp-david-amess-killer-terror-list/. On April 13, 2022, Ali was sentenced to life imprisonment.Holly Bancroft, “Sir David Amess: Ali Harbi Ali given whole life sentence for murder and planning terror attacks on other MPs,” Independent, April 13, 2022, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/sir-david-amess-ali-harbi-ali-murder-terror-attack-b2056986.html.

Born in London, Ali is the son of Harbi Ali Kullane, a former media adviser to Somali prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire. In that role, Kullane had reportedly participated in multiple anti-terrorism campaigns against Somali terrorist group al-Shabaab.Peter Stubley, “Ali Harbi Ali: What we know about suspect in murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Independent (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/amess-murder-mp-ali-harbi-ali-b1939934.html; Nazanine Moshiri, “Son of ex-Somali political aide held over UK lawmaker stabbing,” Reuters, October 18, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-says-considering-more-safety-measures-lawmakers-after-attack-2021-10-17/. After identifying Ali, police met with Kullane and took his phone for analysis.Marie Jackson and Dulcie Lee, “Sir David Amess: MP murder suspect held under Terrorism Act,” BBC News, October 17, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58943184. Kullane confirmed to British media his son was in custody. Kullane also told media he had been “traumatized” by the news of the attack and his son’s arrest.Josh Glancy, Dipesh Gadher, Caroline Wheeler, Katie Tarrant, and John Simpson, “Father’s shock after son held over Sir David Amess murder,” Times (London), October 17, 2021, https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/father-s-shock-after-son-held-over-sir-david-amess-murder-gr8rj7whq.

A week before the October 15, 2021, attack, Ali made an appointment to meet with Amess during a public session at the Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, east of London. Amess had promoted the event on social media.Robert Mendick, Martin Evans, and Ben Riley-Smith, “Sir David Amess murder suspect had considered killing other MPs, the Telegraph understands,” Telegraph (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/10/17/sir-david-amess-murder-suspect-had-considered-killing-mps-telegraph/. On October 15, Ali traveled from his residence in north London to Leigh-on-Sea. Ali had arrived at the event at 10 a.m. that day and reportedly passed through security. Just after noon, Ali allegedly attacked Amess with a knife, stabbing him up to 17 times. Police quickly arrived at the church and arrested Ali at 12:05 p.m. on suspicion of murder. Amess died of his wounds shortly after.Gerhard Mey and Andrew Couldridge, “British lawmaker stabbed to death in ‘terrorist incident,’” Reuters, October 15, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/british-lawmaker-amess-stabbed-multiple-times-sky-2021-10-15/; Peter Stubley, “Ali Harbi Ali: What we know about suspect in murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Independent (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/amess-murder-mp-ali-harbi-ali-b1939934.html; “UPDATE: Investigation into murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Metropolitan Police, October 16, 2021, https://news.met.police.uk/news/update-investigation-into-murder-of-sir-david-amess-mp-435687; Josh Glancy, Dipesh Gadher, Caroline Wheeler, Katie Tarrant, and John Simpson, “Father’s shock after son held over Sir David Amess murder,” Times (London), October 17, 2021, https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/father-s-shock-after-son-held-over-sir-david-amess-murder-gr8rj7whq. Police labeled the attack an act of terrorism and reported a “potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.”Gerhard Mey and Andrew Couldridge, “British lawmaker stabbed to death in ‘terrorist incident,’” Reuters, October 15, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/british-lawmaker-amess-stabbed-multiple-times-sky-2021-10-15/. Police reportedly found Islamist material on Ali’s phone.Michael Hamilton, Nick Pisa, Mike Sullivan, Tom Wells, and Ryan Sabey, “‘BLANK STARE’ Sir David Amess killer was ‘dead behind the eyes’ after attack, on terror alert list and had extremist material on phone,” Sun (London), October 16, 2021, https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/16443571/mp-david-amess-killer-terror-list/. Witnesses reportedly saw Ali on his phone moments before the attack, leading investigators to question whether he had been in communication with a third party. Those concerns reportedly led to police labeling the attack a terror investigation. Nonetheless, police reported their initial belief Ali had acted alone.Robert Mendick, Martin Evans, and Ben Riley-Smith, “Sir David Amess murder suspect had considered killing other MPs, the Telegraph understands,” Telegraph (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/10/17/sir-david-amess-murder-suspect-had-considered-killing-mps-telegraph/. That evening, Ali was transferred to London and held under the country’s Terrorism Act.Marie Jackson and Dulcie Lee, “Sir David Amess: MP murder suspect held under Terrorism Act,” BBC News, October 17, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58943184. On October 16, police obtained a warrant to detain the suspect until October 22 before they are required to charge him.Peter Stubley, “Ali Harbi Ali: What we know about suspect in murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Independent (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/amess-murder-mp-ali-harbi-ali-b1939934.html; “UPDATE: Investigation into murder of Sir David Amess MP,” Metropolitan Police, October 16, 2021, https://news.met.police.uk/news/update-investigation-into-murder-of-sir-david-amess-mp-435687. On October 21, Ali appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court and was charged with murder and preparation of terrorist acts.Joseph Lee, “Sir David Amess: Ali Harbi Ali charged with murder of MP,” BBC News, October 21, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58997590. According to prosecutors, Ali considered himself “affiliated” with ISIS.“Man charged with UK lawmaker’s murder felt ‘affiliated to ISIL,’” Al Jazeera, October 21, 2021, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/21/uk-police-charge-man-with-murder-of-mp-david-amess.

Ali grew up in Croydon in south London and was training to become a medical doctor. He had attended secondary school, where he reportedly enjoyed playing soccer and going to movies with friends.Isaac Crowson, Tom Wells, Nick Pisa, and Mike Sullivan, “TWISTED BY HATE Sir David Amess murder suspect ‘radicalised after watching YouTube videos of hate preacher Anjem Choudary,’” Sun (London), last updated October 18, 2021, https://www.the-sun.com/news/3876488/david-amess-murder-suspect-radicalise-anjem-choudary/. Investigators reportedly pursued the theory that Ali self-radicalized online by watching YouTube videos of radical British Islamist Anjem Choudary, who had been sentenced to prison in 2016 on charges of inviting support for ISIS.Isaac Crowson, Tom Wells, Nick Pisa, and Mike Sullivan, “TWISTED BY HATE Sir David Amess murder suspect ‘radicalised after watching YouTube videos of hate preacher Anjem Choudary,’” Sun (London), last updated October 18, 2021, https://www.the-sun.com/news/3876488/david-amess-murder-suspect-radicalise-anjem-choudary/; Stephen Castle, “Anjem Choudary Is Sentenced to Prison for Promoting ISIS,” New York Times, September 6, 2016, http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/07/world/europe/anjem-choudary-sentenced-isis.html. Choudary denied that he could have radicalized Ali as he was unable to upload videos after he was charged from 2015 until 2021, further stating that “there is currently no significant material to be found anywhere online due to its removal by social media companies.”Stephen Wynn-Davies, “Hate preacher Anjem Choudary denies 'radicalising' suspect arrested over murder of David Amess - because he's had no internet access in six years and his YouTube clips have been removed,” Daily Mail, October 18, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10104531/Hate-preacher-Anjem-Choudary-denies-radicalising-suspect-arrested-murder-David-Amess.html. However, Ali claimed that by 2014, he “pretty much already radicalized [himself].”Rebecca Camber and Rory Tingle, “David Amess killer's mother suspected he'd joined ISIS a year before he brutally murdered MP in 'lone wolf' terror attack but was too afraid to report him,” Daily Mail, April 12, 2022, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10710779/David-Amess-killers-mother-suspected-hed-joined-ISIS-year-murder.html. Furthermore, a high school friend of Ali’s told media Ali’s personality changed after he began watching videos of Choudary online. Friends allegedly told Ali that Choudary was an extremist who hated the West, but Ali continued to watch Choudary’s videos.Isaac Crowson, Tom Wells, Nick Pisa, and Mike Sullivan, “TWISTED BY HATE Sir David Amess murder suspect ‘radicalised after watching YouTube videos of hate preacher Anjem Choudary,’” Sun (London), last updated October 18, 2021, https://www.the-sun.com/news/3876488/david-amess-murder-suspect-radicalise-anjem-choudary/.

At one point, Ali was referred to the Prevent program, the United Kingdom’s counter radicalization program. The referral was not forwarded to the MI5 security agency. Ali reportedly did not remain in Prevent for long as participation is voluntary.Marie Jackson and Dulcie Lee, “Sir David Amess: MP murder suspect held under Terrorism Act,” BBC News, October 17, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58943184. Media sources reported that Ali originally had intended to travel to Syria to fight alongside ISIS, but by 2019 had settled on an attack in Britain.Vivek Chaudhary and Rory Tingle, “From football-loving aspiring doctor to terrorist who murdered David Amess: How Ali Harbi Ali descended down spiral of self-radicalisation after watching videos of ISIS and Bashar al-Assad's brutal Syrian regime,” Daily Mail, April 11, 2022, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10707833/How-David-Amess-killer-descended-spiral-self-radicalisation.html. Additionally, according to media sources, Ali’s mother revealed that she had suspected her son had joined ISIS a year before the killing but was too afraid to report him.Rebecca Camber and Rory Tingle, “David Amess killer's mother suspected he'd joined ISIS a year before he brutally murdered MP in 'lone wolf' terror attack but was too afraid to report him,” Daily Mail, April 12, 2022, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10710779/David-Amess-killers-mother-suspected-hed-joined-ISIS-year-murder.html.

According to preliminary investigations, however, Ali had chosen Amess randomly because he had been able to arrange an in-person meeting with the politician. Ali allegedly sought to kill a national politician without regard to the legislator’s views on Israel or other issues, or party affiliation.Robert Mendick, Martin Evans, and Ben Riley-Smith, “Sir David Amess murder suspect had considered killing other MPs, the Telegraph understands,” Telegraph (London), October 18, 2021, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/10/17/sir-david-amess-murder-suspect-had-considered-killing-mps-telegraph/.

On April 11, 2022, London’s Central Criminal Court found Ali guilty of murder and preparing terrorist acts. During the trial, Ali claimed he targeted Sir David because of his votes in favor of airstrikes in Syria. On April 13, Ali was sentenced to life imprisonment.Holly Bancroft, “Sir David Amess: Ali Harbi Ali given whole life sentence for murder and planning terror attacks on other MPs,” Independent, April 13, 2022, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/sir-david-amess-ali-harbi-ali-murder-terror-attack-b2056986.html; “ISIS supporter found guilty of killing British lawmaker David Amess,” Associated Press, April 11, 2022, https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/britain-david-amess-killing-verdict-1.6415564. Following Ali’s sentencing, Choudary blamed Amess’s death on the United Kingdom’s refusal to allow Ali to leave the country to join ISIS.Dominik Lemanski, “David Amess would be alive if killer had joined IS, claims hate preacher,” Express (London), April 17, 2022, https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1597194/sir-david-amess-murder-ISIS-Anjem-Choudary-Ali-Harbi-Ali-syria-latest. In an online blogpost, Choudary accused the United Kingdom of radicalizing Ali through its “foreign policy in Syria and Iraq.”Isaac Crowson, “‘DISGRACEFUL’ Hate preacher Anjem Choudary blames Britain for ‘radicalising’ MP David Amess’s killer,” Sun (London), April 17, 2022, https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/18286915/anjem-choudary-blames-britain-radicalising-mp-david-amesss-killer/. Choudary also wrote the media would “paint Ali as a monster.”Isaac Crowson, “‘DISGRACEFUL’ Hate preacher Anjem Choudary blames Britain for ‘radicalising’ MP David Amess’s killer,” Sun (London), April 17, 2022, https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/18286915/anjem-choudary-blames-britain-radicalising-mp-david-amesss-killer/.