Month: October 2009

A federal indictment of eleven individuals as a result of a two year investigation of individuals linked to the head of a Dearborn, Michigan area mosque, states that Luqman Ameen Abdullah, Islamic Imam of Masjid Al-Haqq, sought to promote violence against the United States government, including calls for attacks on the FBI, attacks on the U.S. federal government, calls for a nuclear attack on Washington DC, and encouraging attacks on police.

The federal indictment also documented discussions that Luqman Ameen Abdullah had showing hatred against non-Muslims, which he called “kuffars,” and urged others to “start fighting the Kuffar.” The eleven individuals listed in the federal indictment for various federal criminal charges include: Luqman Ameen Abdullah, Mohammad Abdul Bassir, Muhammad Abdul Salaam, Abdul Saboor, Mujahid Carswell, Abdullah Beard, Mohammad Philistine, Yassir Ali Khan, Adam Hussain Ibraheem, Garry Laverne Porter, and Ali Abdul Raqib.

Among these eleven individuals, Mujahid Carswell (aka Mujahid Abdullah), is the son of Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah. Mujahid Carswell was arrested in Windsor, Ontario, Canada on October 29. FOX News reported that “The Royal Canadian Mounted Police took 30-year-old Mujahid Carswell, who was considered armed and dangerous, into custody.”

On October 28, 2009, FBI agents sought to raid the Masjid Al-Haqq in Dearborn, Michigan, but when Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah fired on FBI agents during the raid, he was killed in a shootout. The October 28 FBI arrests included arrests of individuals in Detroit as well. The Detroit Free Press reported on the area raids on October 29. A joint statement by the Detroit FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s office stated that the eleven suspects “are members of a group that is alleged to have engaged in violent activity over a period of many years and known to be armed.”

Luqman Ameen Abdullah (Detroit Free Press)

Also on October 29, the Washington Times reported of concerns by federal officials of “retaliatory violence against law enforcement officers” in the Washington DC area and other areas as a result of the arrests and death of Luqman Ameen Abdullah.  The Investigative Project on Terrorism also reported on comments by CAIR and MANA.

A. Media Excerpts from Federal Indictment

On October 29, the Detroit Free Press reported stories about the efforts of Imam Abdullah to generate hate and plot violence against non-Muslims and Americans: “A look at group’s alleged targets” and “U.S. government, FBI, police all enemies, leader said.”

— Detroit Free Press reports on Luqman Abdullah’s targets per federal indictment:
— “‘Luqman Abdullah calls his followers to an offensive jihad,’ the indictment says.”
— “Abdullah informed an undercover agent ‘that a member of his community in Detroit had shot police officers'”
— “He referred to Washington as a possible target.”

— Detroit Free Press reference to comments by Luqman Ameen Abdullah of Masjid Al-Haqq:
— “We got to take out the U.S. government. The U.S. government is nothing but Kuffars.”
— “Abdullah talked about overthrowing the U.S. government and said his group also needs resources ‘to smash those people.'”
— “‘The FBI knows that I will kill them.'”
— “At one point, Abdullah and an undercover agent were watching a TV program that featured a nuclear bomb. ‘Abdullah said that he just needs a little bomb,’ the indictment said. When the agent asked Abdullah what his target was, Abdullah whispered, ‘Washington.'”
— “‘Always remember … revenge is Islamic. …You got to get mad about it.'”
— “At one point, ‘Abdullah started to jump around the room making motions with his hands as if he were shooting people saying, ‘shoot cops in the head’ and ‘pop, pop.’ Abdullah said he has a lot of experience shooting cops.'”
— “Abdullah ‘said it is fine to bomb police stations.'”
— “‘The worst Muslim is better than the best Kafir.'”
— “‘America must fall.'”

B. Excerpts from the FBI Criminal Complaint (45 page Adobe Acrobat PDF file) Case 2:09-mj-30436 – United States of America versus Luqman Ameen Abdullah (aka Christopher Thomas), etc.

“The investigation has shown that Luqman Ameen Abdullah, Imam of the Masjid Al-Haqq, in Detroit, Michigan, is a highly placed leader of a nationwide radical fundamentalist Sunni group consisting primarily of African-Americans, some of whom converted to Islam while they were serving sentences in various prisons across the United States. Their primary mission is to establish a separate, sovereign Islamic state (“The Ummah”) within the borders of the United States, governed by Sharia law. The Ummah is to be ruled over by Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, formerly known as H. Rapp Brown, who is currently serving a life sentence in the Florence, Colorado Supermax for shooting two police officers in Georgia.”

“In 1981, Luqman Abdullah was convicted in Wayne County, Michigan of felonious assault and carrying a concealed weapons. Further a check of law enforcement indices shows that in 1979, Abdullah was arrested and charged with resisting arrest and assault on a police officer by the Mobile Alabama Police Department; the disposition of those charges is unknown.”

“Luqman Abdullah calls his followers to an offensive jihad, rather than a defensive jihad. He regularly preaches anti-government and anti-law enforcement rhetoric. Abdullah and his followers have trained regularly in the use of firearms, and continue to train in martial arts and sword fighting. Abdullah encourages members of the Masjid Al-Haqq, many of whom are convicted felons, to carry a firearm, and information obtained during the course of this investigation indicates that many of Abdullah’s followers are usually armed. Abdullah preaches that every Muslim should have a weapon, and should not be scared to use their weapons when needed. Members and former members of the Masjid Al-Haqq have stated they are willing to do anything Abdullah instructs and/or preaches, even including criminal conduct and acts of violence.”

“Historical Information from Confidential Source S-1”

“S-1 is a confidential source who has admitted that he was a follower of Luqman Abdullah, a faithful member of The Ummah, and involved in their criminal activities in the past. A great deal of the information provided by S-1 has been independently corroborated by recent investigation; none of it has been refuted. S-1 has proven to be reliable and credible..”

“In a deposition given under oath in December 2007, S-1 testified that on many occasions he has heard Luqman Abdullah advocate the spread of Islam through violent jihad, and violence against the United States government and against law enforcement. Although Abdullah knows that many of his followers are felons who converted to Islam while they were in prison, he encourages them to be armed at all times in preparation for a confrontation with law enforcement. S-1 saw and participated in extensive and regular firearms and martial arts training inside the Masjid Al-Haqq. S-1 saw Luqman Abdullah discipline children inside the mosque by beating them with sticks on their hands, knees, and legs, until they were covered wit bruises, including a boy Abdullah beat so badly with sticks that he was unable to walk for several days.”

“S-1 testified that the members of the Masjid Al-Haqq are ready to use any means necessary to safeguard the mosque and its surrounding area from outside forces, whether they are members of law enforcement or local street gangs. If members need assistance or protection, they are instructed to call upon Luqman Abdullah and his followers rather than calling the police.”

“S-1 testified that on many occasions, he heard Luqman Abdullah preach that Islam should be spread through violent jihad, and advocate violence against the government and against law enforcement. Abdullah told his followers that if the police try to take his weapons or try to apprehend him, he will respond with violence, and they will have to shoot him before they can arrest him. When he was a loyal follower of Abdullah, S-1 would repeatedly listen to a tape recording of Abdullah giving a Khutba (sermon) in 2004 and yelling, “Police so what? Police die too! Feds die too!” and “Do not carry a pistol if you’re going to give it up to the police. You give them a bullet” rather than surrendering your weapons. S-1 heard Abdullah encourage his followers to pick up guns and do something” rather than try to achieve their goals through peaceful means. Abdullah often referred to law enforcement officers as “the Kafir dogs.” I know from my experience and training that “Kafir” is a highly derogatory term used to describe a non-Muslim, and that “Kuffar” is the plural form of the word.”

“According to S-1, Abdullah has an armed group known as the “Sutra team” that is responsible for the security of the mosque and protecting its members both from law enforcement and from local street gangs. When the Masjid Al-Haqq was located at 4118 Joy Road, the members of the Sutra team carried firearms and trained in the martial arts of kickboxing, boxing, sword fighting, and other types of self-defense within the mosque itself.”

“On January 20, 2009, while the members of the Ummah were being evicted from 4118 Joy Road by the City of Detroit for non-payment of property taxes, the Detroit Police Department confiscated two firearms and approximately forty knives and martial arts weapons from Luqman Abdullah’s apartment inside the mosque. The firearms have been turned over to the custody of the FBI and they are logged in to evidence. While the eviction was taking place, FBI executed a federal search warrant inside the facility. Agents found clear evidence corroborating S-1’s statements that firearms training had taken place inside the facility. There were empty shell casings on the basement floor, and large holes in the concrete wall of the “shooting range.” According to S-1, all weapons and fight training was geared towards violent confrontation with law enforcement and/or with local street gangs.”

“Information from Confidential Source S-2.”

“S-2 is a confidential source who has provided information about Luqman Abdullah and his associates. S-2 is proven to be reliable and credible; information provided by S-2 has been independently corroborated by other sources, and by consensual recordings he has made with the members of The Ummah at the direction of the FBI.”

“On December 12, 2007, S-2 told me he had been with Luqman Abdullah outside the mosque on that date, and he was able to surreptitiously record their conversation. S-2 told Abdullah he had asked to donate $5,000 to pay to have someone ‘do something’ during the 2006 Super Bowl in Detroit.  Abdullah said he would not be involved in injuring innocent people for no reason: “If there’s something to be done,… it’s going to be legitimate.” Abdullah acknowledged that he had been involved in weapons training even before he became Muslim and stated:

“I mean things are coming… Well, see the whole point is that you have to understand. Kafir is, they watch me, like very closely. Very, very closely, you know? I mean, ridiculously closely. And, so, you know, when [unintelligible] and I do things, but it’s all based on what’s got to be done at the time. But when, uh, plots or something… I got some, I got some violence [in me] because of what they did to Imam Jamil [Al-Amin]…”

“The overall picture was, uh, to advance Islam. So, uh, always remember, uh, revenge is Islamic. But you have to make sure it’s not personal. It’s very difficult… But you have to start… You got to get mad about it.”

“In reference to video clips appearing on Al Jazeera, Abdullah told S-2:”

“They send me all of this stuff… CAIR and everybody send me all of this stuff. I get sick. I can’t watch… I can’t do that. The, now, what would happen if that, if I’m just dwelling on that? I can’t talk right, I can’t give people focus..”

“And see, we’re like for example, I got some stuff, man, I got some soldiers with me, so it’s not like I, I don’t have, you know nothing. Brothers that I know would, you know, if I say ‘Let’s go, we going to go and do something,’ they would do it. You know. I mean, you got people who talk like they would do something, but… I wouldn’t trust they would [do] nothing.”

“These and other recorded statements by Luqman Abdullah confirm reporting by S-1 and S-2 that Abdullah and his followers view themselves as soldiers at war against the United States government, and against non-Muslims.”

“Information from Confidential Source S-3.”
“On October 10, 2008, S-3, an FBI confidential source who has proven to be reliable and credible in the past, was able to record additional statements by Luqman Abdullah at the mosque. During the Jum’uah prayer, Abdullah stated that Muslims need to cut the ties with Christians, Jews and Kuffars, and said there is no such thing as a good or bad Kafir – the only thing that matters is whether or not someone is Muslim. In reference to Christians, Jews, and the Kuffar, Abdullah stated:

“… We have to cut the ties to them, and understand, you are supposed to be the leaders. And until you act black and believe in that you are the leaders of mankind, you are going to be astray. If you can please the Christians and the Jews. You cannot please them until you follow their religion…”

“Obama is a Kafir. McCain, all the rest of them Kuffars, are Kuffars. You can’t make them a good Kafir, bad Kafir…”

“The premise of Allah, and Islam said, “the worst of [unintelligible], the worst Muslim is better than the best Kafir.”

“Abdullah west on to preach that Muslims need to stop fighting each other and start fighting the Kuffar. Abdullah stated:

“Contrary to our own [unintelligible], we should be trying to figure out how to fight the Kuffar. You see, we need to figure out how to be a bullet.”

“On March 21, 2008, S-3 relayed a conversation about the illegal possession of firearms between himself, Luqman Abdullah and Abdul Bassir that occurred while they were driving to Maryland to attend a Muslim conference. Abdullah told S-3 that he is not willing to go back to jail. He stated that if police attempt to conduct a traffic stop on him, he will not stop. Abdullah told S-3 that he had once been stopped by police, who approached his car with their guns drawn. Abdullah stated that only because he was not able to get to his firearm to shoot the police officers, he fled the scene in his car, and evaded arrest in that way.”

“On June 27, 2008, S-3 told me he had been able to surreptitiously record his conversation with Luqman Abdullah standing outside the mosque that day. S-3 reported that when he arrived at the mosque he realized Abdullah was wearing a bullet proof vest under his customary robes. Abdullah explained he was wearing it because there had been an altercation earlier with other individuals in their Detroit neighborhood who were not members of the Masjid Al-Haqq. Abdullah smiled and told S-3 that “one of the brothers” had taken care of it. S-3 told investigators that he believed this meant that a member of the group had resolved the situation through force and violence, and possibly by shooting someone.”

“S-3 observed an individual he knows as “Abdul Rahim” standing with Luqman Abdullah, watching for the individuals who had been involved in the altercation. S-3 saw Rahim pull a handgun out of his shirt and aim it an approaching van. As the van neared, Rahim realized the people inside were not the individuals they had been involved with earlier, and Rahim put the gun back inside his shirt.”

“Luqman Abdullah and S-3 talked about government regulations for citizens of the United States, such as driver’s licenses and passports and the following exchange occurred:”

“LA: … how are we going [to have] Islam happen here and the Koresh, if you will, or Washington is trying to stop everything we do? … Well, yeah, but it’s not just the fear factor, it’s the whole point, of knowledge. Of understanding that “they” are my enemy, and that I should be trying to plot as to how to make moves to get some things accomplished.”

“S-3: Like them plotting on you and shutting you down, so you be plotting on them?”

“LA: Yeah, that’s right! And to keep going, first of all, you know, to stay alive and survive first.”

“S-3 told investigators that he believes that Abdullah’s reference to “the Koresh” is to a period in history when Muslims were expelled from land they considered their own. They returned later, stronger and more prepared, and reclaimed the land by force and violence from a non-Muslim government. Investigators believe that Abdullah plans to follow that example, and lead others to use forceful means against United States law enforcement.”

“On July 21, 2008, S-3 spoke to Abdul Bassir. Bassir told S-3 that the United States government wants to take people down, and that if the government messes with Luqman Abdullah, “people will start taking heads.” Bassir stated they are almost to that point already, because of the situation with Jamil Al-Amin. Investigators believe Bassir’s statements indicate that the members of the Masjid Al-Haqq are considering taking illegal and violent action against the government because of the incarceration of Jamil Al-Amin.”

“On August 5, 2008, S-3 told me he had been at the mosque that day, and spoken Luqman Abdullah. S-3 was able to surreptitiously record their conversation. Investigators reviewed and listened to the recording, and discussed the matter with S-3, and determined that Abdullah discussed his anti-government ideologies and the idea of a modern day revolution. Abdullah stated, “It might end up being where each State breaks off.” Abdullah then discussed having small Islamic States separate from the nation of the United States, “like the Amish and the Mormons in Utah.” Abdullah stated,

“… If you get enough property, like “Hey, leave them alone.” Just like China do with the Muslims over there… You get enough [unintelligible] where you demand your rights.”

“Later in the conversation, Abdullah stated,”

“We can’t just be saying, ‘O.K., everything is run by the U.S. government,’ we got to take out the U.S. government. The U.S. government is nothing but Kuffars… Even if we was to say, ‘Let’s get us,’ if we came up with a program like, ‘Let’s get us a candidate and, you know, vote for him, vote him in and stuff like that, he’s a Muslim and stuff’… I mean he’s still got to deal with the Kuffars [unintelligible]. So Allah’s not going to be with that.”

“Abdullah then began to talk about revolution and paraphrased another Muslim by stating.”

“It’s impossible to for you to take and change this thing around, trying to go through it the same way. You know, like ‘OK, let me become a part of it then. I’m going to change it.’ You cannot do that. It don’t work like that. And you cannot have a non-violent revolution.”

“Abdullah then stated that Muslims need to stand up, and thing will be all right only when the people who are ruling believe ‘Three is no god but Allah.’ Investigators believe Luqman Abdullah’s statements confirm the information reported by S-1, that that the primary mission of the target subjects is to establish a separate, sovereign Islamic state (an Ummah) within the borders of the United States, to be ruled over by Jamil Al-Amin. It further confirms that Abdullah believes this can only be done through force and violence and not by political action: ‘you cannot have a non-violent revolution.'”

“Also on August 5, 2008, S-3 informed me that he had made a surreptitious recording of his conversation with Luqman Abdullah in Abdullah’s apartment on the second floor of the mosque. Abdullah gave S-3 a bullet proof vest to keep, and showed him a Scimitar sword with a blade approximately three to three and a half feet in length. S-3 saw a knife on the desk with a blade approximately six to eight inches long. Abdullah also showed S-3 a hatchet. Abdullah pointed to a plastic case on the floor and said “That’s a shotgun.” S-3 commented on the hatchet and asked Abdullah, “Do you throw hatchets, or no?” Abdullah replied, “Yeah, I can use a hatchet.” As set above, Luqman Abdullah has been convicted of a violent felony, and therefore it is violation of federal law for him to have possession of either a bullet-proof vest or a shotgun.”

“On October 10, 2008, S-3 was able to speak with Luqman Abdullah in the main assembly room of the first floor of the mosque and to consensually recorded the conversation.”

“Abdullah discussed the spread of Islam with S-3, telling him it is not all right to simply get along with Kuffars. Abdullah stated:”

“We are going to have to fight. We going to have to fight against the Kafir.”

“… I mean if… Muslims run away from that. If the only thing they trying to do is just to get along with the Kafir. That’s not for the Kafir for you to get long with. It’s for you to tell them that they’re Kafir. “Hey, you making a big mistake man. You need to worship Allah.””

“… Only thing they trying, Muslims trying to do, is like, “Just leave me alone.” Man forget about that… They smashing the Muslims all over the world and then we sit here like everything is all right. “Just leave us alone.” I mean, no. Everything ain’t all right. Matter of fact, you better get up from over there and leave them people alone, man. You wrong. It’s no threat from the Muslims here. The Muslims here are saying, you know, “Hey just let us live here and [unintelligible],” that’s the only thing they worried about… That’s not good man, I don’t care.”

“On November 30, 2008, Luqman Abdullah and S-3 discussed a document relating to the capture of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in Afghanistan who was wanted by the FBI for questioning relating to her loitering around the residence of Ghazni’s governor, in possession of instructions on making bombs and notes about installations in the United States. The discussion revolved around the allegations of Siddiqui’s defense attorney and her family, who claimed that Siddiqui had been held captive and tortured by the United States Government. Abdullah said:

“I’ll tell you what, though. Brothers be talking about, they want to do jihad [unintelligible]. We can make some plans to do some [sound of three audible hand claps]… It ain’t, it ain’t go to be [unintelligible] like that. [Unintelligible]… just like they did her. I mean I ain’t talking about just grabbing somebody off the street. You understand what I’m saying?… One of them super Agents. Trail them, follow them, know where they house is at, and everything else. Deal with them, deal with them the way, the way they supposed to be dealt with, man.”

“S-3 then asked Luqman Abdullah how he would recognize the “super Agents” and know whom to follow. Abdullah responded by stating:”

“…. You can’t, you can’t deal with stuff [unintelligible] unless you dealing with it in a sense of organized… You have to wait, watch, check out, investigate. Same thing they do to you. It’s not that complicated man… You got hundreds of Agents right down there off of, off of Michigan [Avenue].”

“S-3 then clarified that Abdullah was talking about the MacNamara Building on Michigan Avenue in Detroit, which houses the FBI and the IRS. Abdullah responded:”

“… No, not the IRS, not them. You ain’t got to deal with them. I mean they [unintelligible], they worth the effort but, you know, you got dudes that, actual Agents that just terrorizing the people… Field Agents, I mean, but the no, they… It’s a whole organized effort. Look, they got cats that’s on the computer. [Unintelligible.] I mean it’s not just.. It’s a organized effort… I mean everything they do, down. Organized effort to betray you. But not just you, other people too. It’s not just, just Muslims… Why do you think McVeigh and them [unintelligible]?”

“Abdullah then went on to state his theories about the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City and the first World Trade Center bombing. Abdullah relayed his belief that the FBI bombed the Murrah Building and the World Trade Center as part of a plot to blame Muslims for violence. Abdullah stated:”

“… It’s no question about, he was involved in getting that stuff done. So now, you know about what happened when, when the, when the stuff jumped off… in Oklahoma City, when the bomb went off and stuff. Hours after that. Hours. They had already put out that it was Arabs, Muslims. Because they already had a plan about that stuff. How they was going to do it. That’s the FBI… I mean, see, see, McVeigh and them. Even though they did what they did, they probably was irked on, and supported and everything, by the FBI… The first World Trade Center Bombing was the FBI.”

“Agents interpret Abdullah’s comments as reiterating his belief that law enforcement should be eliminated, and that the only way to ‘deal with them’ is through force and violence. As related above, Abdullah believes there is no way to have a non-violent revolution; jihad is synonymous with violence. Abdullah’s recorded statements to S-3 confirms S-1’s testimony, that Abdullah is advocating and encouraging his followers to commit violent acts against the United States.”

“On February 26, 2008, S-3 went to the Masjid Al Haqq and made a consensual recording of conversations he had with Luqman Abdullah, Muhammad Abdul Salaam, Abdul Saboor, and others. Luqman Abdullah spoke to them about the importance of trust; Abdullah stated that it is the people closest to a person who will cause them the most emotional harm when trust is broken; it is not what the person doe to betray him, but it is who the betrayal came from that is bothersome. Abdullah also stated that killing a person is one way to handle a person who breaks his trust. Abdullah then went into his office called Abdul Saboor in to meet with him. When they came out, Abdullah removed a knife from his clothing and handed it to Saboor. The knife had a blade of approximately five inches in length and the total length with the handle as approximately nine inches. Saboor began violently swinging the knife in a demonstration of martial arts technique. When he finished, Saboor returned the knife to Abdullah and Abdullah put the knife back inside his clothing. Abdullah claimed he had the capability of being able to penetrate a bullet proof vest with a knife. Abdullah’s clothing had a hole in the side to allow access to the clothing underneath, and S-3 was able to see a portion of a metallic object that had the outline of a handgun and seemed to be weighing down Abdullah’s clothing.”

“Following Saboor’s demonstration of martial arts techniques on February 26, 2008, Luqman Abdullah sat on the floor close to S-3, and in a low voice asked S-3 if he would be able to “get numbers” for a 2007 Dodge Ram with only 20,000 miles on it. S-3 understood that Abdullah was asking S-3 to help him obtain a new VIN for the truck that “one of the brothers” had given to him. Abdullah also admitted he once had another truck which he implied was stolen. He said that one day the police came and towed it away, but they never confronted him about it.”

“On March 21, 2008, S-3, Luqman Abdullah, Mohammad Abdul Bassir, and Mujahid Carswell (aka Mujahid Abdullah, who is Luqman Abdullah’s biological son) drove to Herndon, Virginia. Bassir and Carswell were there to provide security for Luqman Abdullah. During the drive, Abdullah stated that the FBI is the enemy of Islam. Abdullah stated something to the effect, “If they are coming to get me I’ll just strap a bomb on and blow up everybody.” Abdullah gave S-3 the impression that he has access to an explosive device. Abdullah stated that he is not afraid to die for the cause. During a discussion of illegally possessed firearms, Abdullah stated that he is not going back to jail. He state that if the police attempt to conduct a traffic stop on him, he will not stop. Abdullah said he had once been stopped by the police while he was driving a cab. The officers approached Abdullah with their guns drawn, which was the only reason Abdullah was unable to get to his gun in time to shoot them. Knowing that he was at a tactical disadvantage, Abdullah fled in the car and successfully got away. Abdul Bassir spoke of a time in which he was stopped by the police and had a stolen car on the back of his tow truck. Bassir considered himself fortunate, as he did not get in any type of trouble.”

** Partial Excerpts beginning at paragraph 29 **

29 — “Abdullah again spoke of law enforcement being the devil and evil. Abdullah informed S-3 that a member of his community in Detroit had shot police officers.”

31 — “Abdullah also told S-3 he wanted to get a passport, and said he wants to leave the United States permanently. When S-3 asked how Abdullah would be able to maintain his leadership role in the Ummah, Abdullah stated that he would still be able to control things from outside the country, and that “America must fall.”

33 – “During the drive to Flint, Abdullah attempted to justify getting the stolen vehicle and illegally switching the VINs. Abdullah claimed if the acts were about Allah, and were in the cause of God, they constituted a form of jihad because the kuffar would harm them if they were to get caught. Abdullah related a story he claimed was in the Koran in which people in Mecca and Medina would rob and steal from the caravans, and then donate a portion of their ill-gotten gains to benefit Allah. Abdullah concluded that story in the Koran justifies stealing, robbing, and other illegal acts, as long as they profit Islam. S-3 reported that Abdul Saboor had previously told the same story to justify other criminal acts.”

37 – “On June 27, 2008, S-3 attempted to make a consensual recording with Luqman Abdullah at the Masjid Al Haqq. Also present were Mujahid Carswell and several other men known to S-3. Abdullah went to his truck retrieved a paper and gave it to S-3 and spoke about pledging bayaat. The heading of the paper is a as follows:

— “This is a writing of Abdul Kareen, the Imam of Dar-ul-Islam Movement (based on the Medinah Treaty of the Prophet Muhammed Ibn Abdullah, -pboh), with Believers and Muslim of ______ represented by Imam ___ and those follow them and are attached to them and who Violent Extemism along with them.”

“Following the heading are the twenty-four rules of the movement. Abdullah told S-3 to read the paper and tell him what he thinks of it. Abdullah informed S-3 that there may be a time when he will call on him. Abdullah also said that the government plots and plans against them so they need to plot and plan in return and “do whatever it takes.””

38 – “Abdullah said he believes that Allah protects him and stated that law enforcement doesn’t want to mess around with him because they’ll “take it to the streets” if necessary. S-3 asked if that would be like the standoff at Waco. Abdullah replied that it would not be like Waco, but rather if they mess with him it will be a straight up war.”

39 – “Also on June 27, 2008, S-3 told Abdullah he had access to stolen merchandise they could sell for profit. Abdullah said the mosque would be a good place to sell it. Abdullah told S-3 that he still wishes to get a passport. Abdullah said that most of his money comes from overseas. Abdullah looked around to ensure nobody was listening and then said most of the money comes from Canada.”

40 – “On July 24, 2008, Luqman Abdullah warned S-3 that they need to be careful in their actions because of the FBI. Abdullah stated that Abdul Saboor had printed out several things from the internet including Al-Qaeda training camp manuals. Abdullah said he told Saboor to throw them away and cautioned him not to look at things on the internet. Abdullah told S-3 that he needs to be with the movement. Abdullah informed S-3 that something will happen with the Muslims “real soon” and that they should not trust anybody. Abdullah said he has a bullet proof vest he will give to S-3.”

41 – “On August 5, 2008, while Luqman Abdullah and S-3 were in Abdullah’s apartment in the Masjid Al Haqq, Abdullah explained to S-3 that just as states and cities are separate entities under the U.S. Government, the members of the Masjid Al Haqq are also a separate entity independent of the government under their own set of laws. Abdullah stated they follow Sharia (Islamic) Law.”

42 – “On August 7, 2008, S-3 and Luqman Abdullah drove to Chicago. On the drive, Abdullah told S-3 that he has provided extensive martial arts and weapons training to his sons Umar Abdullah and Mujahid Carswell, as well as to Abdul Saboor and another man from Inkster, Michigan. Abdullah and S-3 talked about the 12 gauge shotgun Abdullah had previously showed to S-3. Abdullah stated that one of the attendees of the mosque pawned the gun to him. Abdullah told S-3 he has another 12 gauge shotgun that he may be willing to sell to S-3. Abdullah also spoke of moving outside of the United States to set up refuge and run the organization, because the United States had made it too difficult for him to do things here.”

43 – “S-3 saw Abdullah in possession of a Glock 9mm handgun, serial number EBL27a. Abdullah said he has a .38 special that is registered in Michigan; he doesn’t carry it. Instead, he carries one that “might have a couple bodies” on it.”

46 – “Abdullah said the copes have been trying to get him for a long time because of lot of people were being killed near the mosque. Abdullah also talked about a Detroit police officer, who once arrested one of the members of the mosque who had a gun, but let him go after learning he was from the Masjid Al Haqq.”

47 – “Abdullah refused to take off the gun, saying he carries a gun for a reason, and that’s not the way it’s going to go down. Later at the hotel, Abdullah told S-3 he has shot a lot of people. Abdullah said he does not know how many people, but it is “a lot.” Abdullah said “brothers” (from the Masjid Al Haqq) talk about needing equipment. Abdullah said he tells them they do not need to purchase it because the enemy has it already for them. Abdullah also tell them if they want a bullet proof vest, simply shoot a cop in the head, and take their vest. Abdullah continued to refer to law enforcement officers as kaffir dogs and in other derogatory terms. Abdullah started to jump around the room making motions with his hands as if he were shooting people saying “shoot cops in the head,” and “pop, pop.” Abdullah said he has a lot of experience shooting cops. Abdullah also said in the 1980’s a lot of people were found dead around the masjid, and the cops were scared of the people at the mosque. Abdullah told S-3 that the people at the mosque need to understand how much damage individuals can do. Abdullah said “we’re not any fake terrorists, we’re the real terrorists.” S-3 said he smoked a lot of cigarettes after they got pulled over to calm his nerves. Abdullah told S-3 he must cut back on smoking to calm his nerves, because he might have to sit in a corner for a long while in order to wait to kill someone, and would not be able to smoke.”

** Complete Paragraph Excerpts Continuing at paragraph 48 **

— 48. “On February 6, 2009, Luqman Abdullah gave an anti-government Khutbah during the Jum’uah service. Abdullah talked about how historically Muslims would oppose the government. Abdullah stated that there are three things that make a good Muslim: ikhlas (nature), prayer, and obedience. Abdullah talked about the current need to oppose the American Government and stated that the FBI is the enemy. Abdullah stated that two parties exist in the world, the party of God and the party of the devil. Abdullah said that only Muslims are the party of God. Abdullah also made derogatory statements about Christians and Jews. Abdullah told his followers that they need to be with the Taliban, Hizballah, and with Sheik Bin Laden. Abdullah said the American soldiers who commit suicide are cowards, and they commit suicide because they are being punished by Allah. Abdullah contrasted this with the actions of Muslim suicide bombers: what hey are doing is not suicide, but rather an act of blowing the enemy up. Abdullah told his followers it is their duty to oppose the FBI and the government and it does not matter if they die. He also told the group that they need to plan to do something.

“On February 12, 2009, S-3 and Luqman Abdullah drove to Chicago, Illinois together in order to meet an individual to get fur coats to fence (as part of Undercover Operation, explained below). On the drive there, Luqman Abdullah said, “I shot a lot of nigg*rs.” He told S-3 details of the date and place a particular shooting occurred. Abdullah said no one has ever questioned him regarding the incident. Abdullah said that when he was a taxi driver, he picked up two girls. When he dropped the girls off, the girls ran from the taxi cab. A man approached Abdullah’s tax cab and paid him $20 for driving the girls, while another unknown male came from the other side of the cab and put a gun to Abdullah’s head. The man shot Abdullah in the head and began feeling Abdullah’s pockets. Luqman Abdullah then retrieved his pistol and shot both men. Abdullah explained to S-3 that he killed both individuals. Abdullah called Mohammad Abdul Salaam who offered to find the guys that shot Abdullah, but Abdullah told him not to do that. Abdullah said he had gotten rid of the gun because he didn’t want the police to find it. Luqman Abdullah refused to go to the hospital because he knew he had shot both men, but the next day at Jum’uah prayer, he fell over and passed out during his sermon, and was rushed to the hospital. Abdullah did not explain anything further regarding this incident.”

“S-3 and Abdullah then drove from Chicago to Flint, Michigan with fur coats. S-3 paid for a room at the Holiday Inn. Luqman Abdullah and S-3 were watching a police show on TV when Abdullah kept saying “blow ’em up, man blow “em up.” He then said, “what’s this here, a bomb in there? Obviously it is. S-3 told Abdullah that when he had been in prison, an inmate he met gave him the formula for trinitrotoluene (TNT). He explained to Abdullah that the inmate went over it with him everyday for probably one month. He told Abdullah that TNT in a glass looks like water, and no one could tell what it is by looking at it. Luqman Abdullah asked if S-3 can still make TNT now. S-3 explained to Abdullah that he hasn’t thought about it in a long time, and would have to sit down and write it out on paper first. Abdullah told S-3 to not talk about it aloud anymore. Abdullah told S-3 that if he could remember how to make TNT, that would be nice, and then he could teach Abdullah how to make the substance. Abdullah told S-3 to check it out and see if he knows how to make it. He also instructed him to not try it at his own house and risk blowing up his children. Abdullah said try and put the formula down on paper, but he also had to test it to see if it actually works. Abdullah then said they have to try to make it and told S-3 to figure out the formula.

“On March 15, 2009, Luqman Abdullah asked S-3 if he knew where he could get a military style pistol belt. The two made plans to go to an Army supply store so Abdullah could get a gun belt.”

“On March 18, 2009, Luqman Abdullah and S-3 went to Harry’s Army Surplus, 2050 North Telegraph Road, Dearborn, Michigan. While they were in the store, Abdullah told S-3 that the bailiff’s took his weapons from the second floor of the Masjid Al Haqq the day they were evicted. Abdullah looked at pistols holsters, military belts, gun straps, knives and face makes that cover the entire face. Abdullah asked the sales clerk if she had a strap to fit a specific “Air Soft” AR-15 type rifle, but they did not. Luqman Abdullah told S-3 that he needed a military belt because he has a military gun, an M-15, which is similar to the “AirSoft” rifle in the store. Abdullah purchased a green padded rifle strap. He did not purchase a face mask because the shop only had winter ones.”

“Luqman Abdullah gave S-3 a Compact Disc labeled, “convert to Islam” which S-3 described as pro-Taliban propaganda. Abdullah said he had received it from Abdul Saboor.”

“That same day, March 18, 2009, S-3 gave Luqman Abdullah a piece of paper with what he told Abdullah was a recipe for Trinitrotoluene (TNT), because Luqman Abdullah had asked S-3 to write it down for him, Abdullah told S-3 that he would not use it “until it was time.” Later that day, S-3 spoke to Abdullah on the telephone. S-3 told Abdullah that he needed to double check something with the formula and instructions for making TNT that he had given Abdullah earlier that day. Abdullah stated that he still had the paper with him and agreed to meet S-3 at Ali Raqib’s store, which they were using as the mosque after the eviction from 4118 Joy Road. S-3 asked Abdullah if he wanted him to try to make the TNT. Abdullah told S-3 to make it and said he would like to be there. S-3 told Abdullah he would make a video of the test, however, Abdullah instructed him not to. Abdullah cautioned S-3 to be careful.”

“Referring to the face mask that Abdullah was looking for earlier in the day at Harry’s Army Surplus Store, S-3 asked Abdullah if he needed the face mask that night. Abdullah said that although he did not need it for that night, he would like to obtain one soon. Abdullah told S-3 that he did not have anything planned for that night in particular, but said “you never know when you will need it.”

“On April 1, 2009, Luqman Abdullah gave S-3 a video titled “The Terrorist Next Door” which is a true story about the terrorist who tried to smuggle explosives across the border in Washington State during Y2K in an attempt to commit a terrorist attack, but was stopped and his attempt was foiled. Abdullah told S-3 to watch the video, and it would give them something to talk about.”

“On April 2, 2009, S-3 picked up Abdullah from his house and drove him to Alabama. On the way, Abdullah and S-3 discussed the movie. Abdullah talked about the recruitment of terrorists by a terrorist cell. Abdullah said the terrorists’ mistake was that he should have had the explosive ready to detonate when he crossed the border in case he got stopped. Abdullah said he waited too long, and it was unprofessional. Abdullah didn’t agree with bombing civilian targets such as buses, which occur in Israel and the West Bank, but said it is fine to bomb police stations.”

“In discussing their January 2009 eviction from the Masjid Al-Haqq at the 4118 Joy Road, Abdullah said he has something planned for “them,” but now is not the right time. Abdullah did not expound on this further. Abdullah said S-3 will know when he is needed, and that is why it is important to stay in communication with each other. Abdullah said that when things happen, he wants to be in the city, as opposed to in the woods, because he would be better able to avoid apprehension and arrest in the city; he would be able to maneuver better in an urban area. Abdullah talked about the need to dig tunnels to prepare for this eventuality. Abdullah told S-3 about a time that he was eluding law enforcement. Abdullah stated that as the police were chasing him with a helicopter, he attempted to shoot at them, however his rifle misfired because they made their own ammunition and they had used too much powder.”

“On April 19, 2009, Abdullah inquired if S-3 had spoken to Mohammad Philistine about obtaining more stolen merchandise to be fenced. Abdullah told S-3 that the group needed money to host a Shuraa’ Counsel meeting for the Ummah. Abdullah talked about overthrowing the United States Government and said they also needed resources “to smash those people”.”

“On April 24 and 25, 2009, S-3 attended the Al-Ummah National Shuraa’ which was hosted by Luqman Abdullah and Masjid Al-Haqq in Detroit. On April 24, Abdullah led the Jum’uah service. During his Khutbah, Abdullah preached his typical rhetoric about the kuffar and the police and the need to establish a separate Islamic government.”

“On May 15 2009, Luqman Abdullah led the Jum’uah service. S-3 characterized Abdullah’s Khutbah as being very extreme and described Abdullah as being “fired up,” at times yelling. Abdullah preached that they should make America like Saudi Arabia, where the Muslims took control by fighting and dying. Abdullah told his audience that although they may a plan as individuals, they need to come together as a whole. While pointing towards 4118 Joy Road, where the Masjid Al-Haqq had been located, Abdullah said “what they did to us is not over.” Abdullah said they need to maintain Sabr (patience). Abdullah repeatedly spoke about the need to carry out their mission, however, he never provided the details of what the mission was. Abdullah encouraged the attendees to purchase homes in the neighborhood of the new mosque. Abdullah said that they hate the Jews and that God hates the Jews.”

“Abdullah also preached that they can not merely be lukewarm in their religion, that they must be winners. Abdullah said they need to start “right here at Joy Road.” He said that the government in America is nothing and has no power. Abdullah also spoke negatively about Americans in Saudi Arabia and Khuffar in the Arab Peninsula.”

“On May 21, 2009, Luqman Abdullah, S-3 and another man left Detroit at approximately 6:00 a.m., after the morning prayer, in order to travel to Montgomery, Alabama to meet with an Ummah Imam who had recently been shot by the police. S-3 attempted to make consensual recordings of his conversation with Abdullah during the trip. Due to the long duration of the trip, it was not possible to record every conversation.”

“During the drive, Abdullah told S-3 about a murder charge he beat in the past. Abdullah said “the Feds” have been after him for a long time, and he believes he has not been arrested because Allah is merciful to him and protects him. Abdullah stated something to the effect, “The FBI knows that I will kill them.” Abdullah also stated that the police are his targets too, not just the FBI. On two different occasions during the trip while espousing anti-government rhetoric, Abdullah said he is “getting ready to meet Allah.” Abdullah said that he has not been sleeping well at night because he does not know when the police are going to come after him.”

“At one point in the evening, S-3 and Abdullah were in the hotel room alone. Abdullah talked about the need to be careful in using a computer and internet because that is how people get in trouble. Abdullah said he would like to get C4 or another type of explosive. Abdullah said that although he does not need the explosives, having them would be helpful for what he needs to do. At this point, the third man came back into the room, so the conversation ended.”

“On the evening of May 22, 2009, Abdullah, S-3 and the third man went back to Montgomery, Alabama for a study session that Abdullah was asked to lead. Before the class started, Abdullah talked to the attendees about the times he shot other people. Abdullah gave details about how he shot his victims and how their bodies reacted from the shots. Abdullah was very excited and animated about this and even acted the events out and showed them the scars he obtained from being shot during altercations. Abdullah admitted he shot one person seven times with a .22 caliber gun. Abdullah said that he was questioned by the police about the incident. Abdullah talked about a second shooting he committed with an AK and how he had to get rid of the gun. Abdullah said that he was never questioned by the police about this incident.”

“On May 23, 2009, in Alabama, Luqman Abdullah spoke abut the Dar-Ul Movement, and said they were a military force to be reckoned with. According to Abdullah, an Imam from New York is the leader. Jamil Al-Amin and Luqman Abdullah are members, as are Abdullah’s close associates from Las Vegas, Philadelphia, and Cleveland. Abdullah stated he had participated in training camps, which were located in various states, with Jawallah (soldier) scouts.”

“According to Abdullah, people from Saudi Arabia wanted to fund many of the Muslim groups in the United States, but wanted them all to join together as one group. Dar-Ul could not agree with all the other groups, so they split apart. Two years before Abdullah joined the movement, a shooting happened in New York and several Dar-Ul people were killed. Jamil Al-Amin said they had to divide the group because having too many people in one organization made them an easy target. According to Abdullah, the group is still Dar-Ul, but this is not widely known because of the United States government. The Ummah is a cover name for Dar-Ul.”

“On June 19, 2009 while they were in Gainesville, Georgia, S-3 heard Luqman Abdullah tell the Ummah Imam that he knows somebody in the Masjid Al Haqq is working for the Feds. Abdullah told the Imam that a young man had asked him about going overseas to fight. Abdullah said that he is hopeful that anyone who is working for the Feds will come to the mosque often to pray, will see the error of his ways, and admit he has been working with the Feds. Then he will be on the inside. Abdullah also said that if somebody is trying to gather information on him, he would kill them himself or have them killed. Abdullah said that he has people who would be happy to handle the problem. Abdullah also said that he knows he is being listened to and targeted by law enforcement so he intentionally makes conflicting statements in order to protect himself.”

“At one point, Abdullah spoke to the Gainesville Ummah Imam’s children, who were between approximately 9 and 11 years old. Abdullah told them stories about his shooting people with a 9mm gun. Abdullah said that sometimes he carries two handguns and said that he had shot a lot of people.”

“On June 19, 2009 while they were in a hotel room in Gainesville, Georgia, S-3 and Abdullah were watching a television crime show that involved a discussion of how to dispose of a body. S-3 recommended putting the body in concrete. Abdullah stated that there would be no time to do something like that it would be too difficult. Abdullah told S-3 in a matter of fact way that the bodies should just be buried. Also while watching television, there was a program with a nuclear bomb in it. Abdullah said that he just needs a little bomb. When S-3 asked Abdullah what his target was, Abdullah whispered, “Washington.”

“On July 8, 2009, Abdullah paid S-3 $1,250 for his role in the July 1, 2009 acquisition of the purportedly stolen television sets (part of the Undercover Operation, below). Then Abdullah got into S-3’s vehicle and placed three rounds of .38 special caliber ammunition on the dash board. Abdullah told S-3 he had a .38 caliber handgun and asked S-3 if he had anything. Abdullah said that he originally acquired the gun for someone else, so he could protect himself. Abdullah then removed a loaded .38 special caliber revolver from his back and put it on the center console of S-3’s vehicle. Abdullah told S-3 that he could pay him $190 or $200 for the gun. S-3 gave Abdullah $200 for the gun, from the $1,250 that Abdullah had just paid him. Abdullah cautioned S-3 not to get caught with the gun and said that it is advantageous that it is a revolver because “it will not leave anything behind” (i.e., spent shell casings). Abdullah told S-3 to keep it on his person rather than hidden in the car in case he got pulled over. Abdullah told S-3 that he needs to be able to get his gun out before the cops get theirs. Abdullah also told S-3 that the cops cannot search his person unless he is arrested. In addition to the handgun, Abdullah gave S-3 the five rounds of ammunition that were loaded in it, as well as the three rounds he placed on the dashboard. After he left Abdullah, S-3 immediately contacted FBI and turned over a .38 special caliber revolver, described as an IND NAC DE ARMAS-BRASIL, Model 3, Serial Number 032576, with 8 rounds of .38 special ammunition. The weapon and ammunition are being maintained in evidence.”

“On August 19, 2009, S-3 went to the Masjid Al-Haqq. Luqman Abdullah discussed a hadith (an account attributed to the Prophet Muhammad) in which he claimed the Prophet Muhammad said that it is okay to participate in theft; as long as that person prays, they are in a good state.”

— End of Excerpts from Federal Indictment Regarding Luqman Abdullah — see the PDF of the remainder of the Federal Indictment for additional text…

C. Comments by CAIR

The Detroit Free Press reported that Dawud Walid, the leader of the Michigan chapter of the Council of American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), knew Imam Abdullah, stating that “I know him as a respected imam in the Muslim community.”

The CAIR organization was listed as an unindicted co-conspirator (page 5) in the Holy Land Foundation terror finance trial.

As referenced in an article on Violent Extemism in America, CAIR’s Dawud Walid has written commentaries for the Detroit News, and has frequently been quoted by the Detroit News on issues involving Muslims.

The Detroit News further reports on CAIR’s Dawud Walid’s praise of Luqman Ameen Abdullah in its October 29, 2009 article “Shocked friends say imam was generous and helpful.” In the Detroit News report, CAIR’s Dawud Walid said Abdullah “would give the shirt off his back to people.”

The Detroit News report also discusses CAIR’s Dawud Walid as questioning the charges against Luqman Ameen Abdullah and others in the case, stating “But federal authorities didn’t seek terrorism charges against Abdullah or others in the mosque, and Walid wondered why their religion was so prominent in the complaint against them. ‘They have no linkage to terrorism nationally or internationally,’ Walid said. ‘What in the world does Islam have to do with these charges? Why is religion being brought into play?'”