Congressman Mike Rogers, R-Saks, said that terrorism remains a threat. This was following the arrest of Nayef Qashou, a Lee County resident charged with lying to the FBI and destroying records. The arrest was part of a years-long counterterrorism investigation.
“Today’s arrest is a stark reminder that terrorism remains a threat in our own backyard,” Roger said. “According to the FBI, Qashou used encrypted phone apps to discuss attacks on U.S. forces on American soil. I applaud the diligent work of law enforcement for their continued vigilance and preventing any potential violence before it could occur.”
Qashou has dual Jordanian and United States citizen. He lives in Auburn and was attending general education classes at Auburn’s Southern Union Community College.
FBI agents allege that Qashou lied to FBI agents and destroyed evidence in their terror probe while asserting he would execute a U.S. Soldier if the Islamic State Group ordered him to.
The FBI says Qashou arrived in the U.S. through Atlanta’s airport in 2015. The FBI interviewed him more than a dozen times over the past four years. The FBI claims he used encrypted phone apps to communicate with suspected terrorists who told him he should carry out an attack in the United States.
“While the FBI continues its investigation, I am not aware of any further threat at this time,” Rep. Rogers said. “Law enforcement is hard at work to keep our community safe. I encourage anyone who sees suspicious behavior to report it to authorities.”
Congressman Mike Rogers serves as Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security and is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.
He is serving in his ninth term representing Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District.
