In the first case of its kind, six people have been charged in court under the Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act.
The six radicalised Bangladeshi nationals — Rahman Mizanur, Mamun Leakot Ali, Miah Rubel, Zzaman Daulat, Md Jabath Kysar Haje Norul lslam Sowdagar, and Sohel Hawlader lsmail Hawlader — were among the group of eight detained under the Internal Security Act in April. They appeared in court today — escorted in a heavily armored Gurkha Contingent truck — and were charged for providing, collecting and possessing property in relation to financing terrorism.
The investigation against them was headed by the Commercial Affair Department, who received information that several radicalised Bangladeshi nationals were involved in the sordid activity of financing terrorism. Employed in local construction and marine industries, they were part of a clandestine group that called themselves the Islamic State in Bangladesh (ISB). Various radical documents were also found on them, including a bomb-making instruction manual and a user manual for a sniper rifle. They had raised the money to purchase firearms to carry out attacks in their home country, with the intention to topple the government and set up an Islamic State.
Clearly, their plans were thwarted. In court, five of the six intend to plead guilty, while Mamun intends to claim trial. According to him, he was just passing $500 to Rahman as a transaction as they both work in the same company.
“Singapore takes a serious view of any support for terrorism-related activities, including terrorism financing,” the police wrote in a statement. “The authorities will take firm and decisive action against any person who provides, collects and/or possesses property, for terrorist purposes.”
If convicted, they may each face a maximum fine of $500,000 and/or jailed up to 10 years for each offence.
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