While I’ve noted the development of Islamic-oriented music in various forms in previous posts, it should also be noted that the performers have to follow pertinent laws. Here we have the case of a popular musician (the article says) who is in trouble for lying about his relationships with two organizations identified as ‘supporters of terrorism’, HAMAS and the Holy Land Foundation for Relief and Development. Mohamad Mustapha Ali Masfaka sought to immigrate to the US. Under oath, he denied those relationships. That’s bad and it’s dropped him into a pot of trouble. He’ll be lucky if he’s simply deported and denied the possibility of ever seeking US citizenship in the future. If you’re seeking citizenship, in any country, it’s never wise to be less than honest and forthcoming on the paperwork!

Popular U.S. Muslim singer indicted for alleged HAMAS role
Douglas J. Hagmann, Director

26 January 2010: Mohamad Mustapha Ali Masfaka, 47, more well known as Abu Ratib, a popular singer of Islamic religious songs in the Muslim world, was arrested last week on charges of attempted naturalization fraud, making false statements to FBI investigators and immigration officials, and perjury.

According to federal investigators in a press release dated 22 January 2010, the singer reportedly lied about his involvement with the Holy Land Foundation for Relief and Development (HLF), an organization that was designated by the U.S. Department of Treasury on December 4, 2001, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist [organization]. According to federal investigators, Masfaka praised HAMAS during some of his international performances subsequent to the 2001 designation of HAMAS as a terrorist organization.

The indictment (9-page PDF document) was unsealed on Friday.
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