FBI Watching Somali Muslims in D.C.

Fearing the next terror attack could emerge from America’s growing Somali refugee population, federal authorities have stepped up surveillance in Somali communities–including a large enclave just outside Washington.

In fact, WND has learned that the Baileys Crossroads area of Northern Virginia–about 10 miles from the capital–was a critical focus of security investigations in advance of the presidential inauguration in January.

Investigators say a troubling number of the area’s Somali men hold “militant” anti-American views and sympathize with al-Qaida. They typically work as taxi drivers, gathering at local coffeehouses during their breaks, as well as at a nearby mosque tied to 9/11.

Dar al-Hijrah Islamic Center in Falls Church, Va., which assisted at least two of the al-Qaida hijackers, has a large representation of Somali immigrants. Investigators say a former Dar al-Hijrah imam is now working with al-Qaida to arm and recruit fighters–including Americans–for the holy war in Somalia.

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Authorities estimate the Washington area is home to about 6,000 Somalis, most of whom are Muslim.

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Most Somali immigrants are refugees of civil unrest in the war-torn African country of Somalia. However, investigators say many recent immigrants have used false narratives to enter the U.S. They say some 80 percent of Somalis who came into the U.S. on the basis of family reunification are in fact not related.

The Dar al-Hijrah cleric who privately ministered to two of the 9/11 hijackers–possibly preparing them for their suicide mission targeting the Pentagon–has been actively recruiting Americans to join the holy war in Somalia.

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