Proof of Explosives Discovered in Arrest of Suspected ISIS Money Distributor

Arrest of Long Beach Man for Alleged Support of ISIS

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California has announced the arrest of a 28-year-old man from Long Beach, who allegedly sent 12 payments to the terrorist organization ISIS. Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, a legal permanent resident originally from the Philippines, has been accused of attempting to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations. A public statement from U.S. Attorney Bill Essayri highlighted the seriousness of Villanueva’s actions, stating they pose a significant threat to national security.

“Supporting terrorist groups, whether domestically or internationally, is a serious risk to our national security,” Essayri remarked. “We will pursue and prosecute those who aid and comfort our enemies.”

According to an affidavit associated with the complaint, Villanueva allegedly engaged in discussions on social media with individuals he believed to be ISIS fighters. Reports suggest that during these conversations, he voiced his intention to support ISIS financially.

In one instance, he reportedly mentioned that it was “an honor to fight and die for our faith” and expressed a desire to join the cause one day. He also inquired about sending money to cover the costs of equipment and weapons for these individuals.

Financial records indicate that over the span of five months, Villanueva sent a total of $1,615 via intermediaries to support these acts. In further communications, he mentioned owning a bomb and a knife, and during his arrest, the FBI found what appeared to be a bomb in his bedroom.