According to the Philippine media, local police have uncovered a Hamas terrorist cell in the country that planned to carry out terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens in the country.
The terrorist organization reportedly tried to carry out attacks in the country through its branches in the region and the recruitment of Filipino citizens.
"Our Philippine source identified a Hamas operative known as 'Bashir', who reportedly tried to establish infrastructure in the Philippines while promising financial support for several local groups including extremist operatives with links to international terrorist organizations," Philippine police intelligence chief Nail Allinsengan said.
He further noted that according to information obtained through several local and international sources managed to reveal the real name of the man known as' Bashirir ': this is Fares al-Shikli, in charge of Hamas' foreign relations and with an alleged red card against him by the International Criminal Police (Interpol) .
"He is charged with the offense of logistical support for terrorism," the senior official added.
A report by the Philippine Government News Agency detailed that the source who exposed al-Shikli made a number of raids to Malaysia between 2018-2016, where he allegedly met with a Hamas operative who offered his services to harm Israelis in exchange for financial incentives.
They further elaborated that in 2016 Al Shikli began teaching the anonymous figure the craft of assembling bombs and using explosives.
A year later, al-Shikli demonstrated his intentions to recruit Filipino citizens to carry out terrorist attacks, organize protests at local embassies and lead the efforts of anti-Israel propaganda in the country.
"This is a stern warning to all terrorist groups planning to carry out similar recruitment and activities in the country. We have a way of getting to know you and you will not be able to carry out your plans here," Allinsangen concluded.
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