For weeks, many Northshore residents have been asking why federal agents raided beauty supply businesses in Hammond and Slidell.
Newly released federal records are now providing answers.
On September 15, FBI New Orleans and law enforcement partners executed search warrants at businesses in Hammond and Slidell, along with a residence in Covington. The FBI has since confirmed the searches were conducted as part of a Joint Terrorism Task Force investigation.
Federal prosecutors have now charged Abdel Adhami, 35, and Omar Adhami, 33, both of Covington, in an alleged international fundraising operation prosecutors say provided money to Hamas.
Louisiana business records identify the brothers as owners of 4 Her Beauty Supply in Hammond and J Lo Supply in Slidell.
According to federal prosecutors, Abdel allegedly contributed approximately $94,000 and Omar approximately $11,000 to a network prosecutors allege was raising money for Hamas.
Federal court records also describe communications in which investigators allege money intended for militants was discussed using coded language. Investigators further allege Abdel discussed with an undercover NYPD officer processing money through a store cash register so the transaction would appear to be a legitimate merchandise purchase.
Both men now face four federal charges, including providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, conspiracy to provide material support, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The September searches that raised questions across the Northshore are now publicly connected to the federal terrorism financing investigation.
The charges are allegations. Abdel and Omar Adhami are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
