Uzbek Nationals Arrested in South Korea for Alleged Terrorist Financing
Four Uzbek nationals have been apprehended in South Korea for allegedly supporting a terrorist group in Syria. The main suspect, who is in his 30s, sent cryptocurrency worth 6.3 million won ($4,600) to Khatiba al-Tawhid wal-Jihad (KTJ), a UN-listed terrorist organization, over eight months since April 2025.
The suspect allegedly used the received cryptocurrency to purchase 11 used cars and two excavators, worth a combined total of 170 million won, for shipment to Syria. The three other Uzbek nationals face charges of helping the main suspect in finding used vehicles.
Investigators believe the main suspect had no official ties with KTJ but began supporting it after being contacted by his younger brother, who is a member of the organization. The suspect was previously placed under arrest and indicted with physical detention in April, following his inclusion on Interpol's red notice.