A Disturbing New Chapter in Canada’s Security History

In a stunning revelation, a 36-year-old man from Toronto, Khalilullah Yousuf, has confessed to his involvement in what the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are labeling the biggest terrorism financing scheme in Canadian history.

Funding Terrorism Through Cryptocurrencies and Crowdfunding

Between September 2019 and December 2022, Yousuf orchestrated a sophisticated operation using cryptocurrency and traditional money transfers to channel funds overseas to terrorist activities. An agreed statement of facts disclosed that he raised over $15,000 via a chillingly ordinary 'GoFundMe' campaign, with contributions exceeding $35,000 aimed squarely at supporting the notorious terrorist group Daesh, also known as ISIS.

Radicalizing Online: A Digital Threat

Yousuf didn’t stop at fundraising; he actively engaged in recruitment efforts for Daesh/ISIS. He pleaded guilty to generating and sharing more than 3,800 internet links designed to indoctrinate and radicalize individuals, highlighting the alarming blend of technology and extremism.

Connections to Other Terrorism Cases

Moreover, from October 2020 to March 2021, Yousuf was in communication with an individual in the United States who was later convicted for attempting to provide material support to the very same terrorist organization.

A Historic Conviction: Setting Precedents in Canada

The RCMP emphasized the significance of this case, stating, "This is the largest terrorism financing conviction to date in Canada in terms of monetary value. This conviction is also the first successful case in Canada involving cryptocurrency and online crowdfunding as tools for financing terrorism." The implications of this case could transform how authorities approach similar cases in the future.