In a significant counter terrorism conviction, Cholo Abdi Abdullah, a Kenyan national, has been found guilty in the United States for conspiring to execute a 9/11-style attack under the direction of the Somali-based terrorist group, Al-Shabaab. The U.S. Department of Justice announced that Abdullah was convicted of charges including conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism, aircraft piracy, and training under a foreign terrorist organization. Abdullah, allegedly recruited by Al-Shabaab, had undergone pilot training in the Philippines and was preparing to use his skills to launch an attack targeting a U.S. commercial airliner.

According to federal prosecutors, Abdullah’s plot was foiled in its planning stages, with U.S. intelligence and law enforcement working in coordination to intercept him before he could carry out the attack. Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen stated that Abdullah “trained to replicate one of the most horrific acts of terror in U.S. history, but law enforcement successfully disrupted his plans before lives could be lost.”

Court records revealed that Abdullah had received support and direction from Al-Shabaab operatives, who trained him to carry out an attack resembling the September 11, 2001 attacks. The DOJ indicated that he was allegedly instructed to hijack a plane, a tactic the group hoped would incite global fear and demonstrate Al-Shabaab’s commitment to attacking Western targets.

Cholo Abdi Abdullah’s conviction highlights the enduring threat posed by Al-Shabaab, which has been linked to a number of terrorist plots targeting both African and Western nations. Federal officials commended the joint efforts of various intelligence agencies, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in combating global terrorism.

U.S. officials have yet to announce Abdullah’s sentence, but he faces life imprisonment for his involvement in the thwarted attack. His sentencing will reflect the severity of his crimes and serve as a deterrent to those planning similar acts of terror. Abdullah’s conviction underscores the United States’ commitment to preventing international terror plots and protecting civilian lives.