Federal authorities arrested three American men this week on charges they conspired to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, also known as ISIS. The suspects allegedly used cryptocurrency to try to buy weapons such as RPGs and drones intended to target U.S. troops overseas.
Homegrown Plot Thwarted by FBI
The arrests took place early on June 6, 2026, in Kansas City, Kansas, San Diego, and Sacramento, California. All three individuals are U.S. citizens. According to the Department of Justice, they discussed violent attacks and worked to build a crypto-funded war chest for ISIS.
Investigators say the men sent more than $2,000 via cryptocurrency to an undercover contact. The FBI intervened before any weapons could be acquired or attacks carried out. Officials described the operation as a proactive success that prevented potential harm to American service members.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
Court documents outline how the suspects used online platforms, including Discord and social media, to pledge allegiance to ISIS, share propaganda, and fantasize about attacks like beheading soldiers or targeting special forces. The group reportedly explored ways to send funds anonymously through crypto ATMs and other methods to support the terrorist organization.
Names of the suspects include Bisaam Ghafoor from the Kansas City area, along with Elias Shamsaldeen and Bereen Dzayee. Each faces charges that could bring up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
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Officials React
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the government’s commitment to dismantling terrorist networks wherever they appear. “Today’s arrest of three individuals who allegedly conspired to provide material support to ISIS makes clear our commitment to taking down terrorist networks anywhere,” he said. FBI Director Kash Patel also praised the arrests as a key disruption.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic radicalization and the use of cryptocurrency in terrorist financing. While the amount of money transferred was relatively small, authorities noted the clear intent to arm ISIS against U.S. forces.
The investigation remains active, and officials continue to urge anyone with information to contact the FBI. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
