Filipino arrested in U.S. for allegedly funding ISIS

A Filipino man was arrested in Long Beach last Saturday (Manila time) for allegedly sending a dozen payments to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, a lawful permanent resident from the Philippines, was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization—a federal felony offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in the United States District Court in Los Angeles on Tuesday (Manila time).

In a statement, acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli said, “Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, is a serious risk to our national security.”

“We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies,” Essayli added.

According to a criminal complaint filed by federal prosecutors, Villanueva allegedly communicated via social media with two individuals who claimed to be ISIS fighters.

During the conversations, he expressed a desire to join the group, saying, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven. Someday soon, I’ll be joining.”

Prosecutors said Villanueva also told one of the individuals that he possessed a bomb and knives. When FBI agents arrested him Tuesday morning, a suspected explosive device was found in his bedroom.

An affidavit filed with the complaint described how Villanueva discussed sending money to support the fighters’ terrorist activities. At one point, he asked whether his funds would “cover your equipment and your weapons.”

Western Union records showed Villanueva allegedly sent 12 payments totaling $1,615 over five months to two intermediaries abroad.