OP 21 November, 2024 - 10:58 PM
In federal court in San Diego, Australian Osemah Elhacen received 63 months (5.25 years) in prison for his role in an international conspiracy to sell encrypted ANOM devices to criminal organizations. The devices were used to coordinate drug trafficking and other crimes.
Elhacen was one of 17 defendants in the case initiated as part of Operation Trojan Shield. During this sting operation, the FBI operated the ANOM platform, which was used by criminals for encrypted correspondence. This allowed agents to intercept more than 27 million messages and detain hundreds of people around the world.
According to the court, Elhacen was involved in the distribution of ANOM devices from Colombia, and also participated in drug trafficking and money laundering. He pleaded guilty in 2024 to charges of forming a criminal organization. Elhacen facilitated the sale of the devices for more than 18 months, helping to transport at least 15 kilograms of illegal substances.
An analysis of ANOM messages showed that Elhacen actively promoted the devices in Colombia and other countries. He organized technical support, subscription renewals, and was involved in setting prices for the services.
In 2021, Elhacen was arrested in Colombia and later extradited to the United States. At his sentencing, U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said that even the most sophisticated technology cannot hide criminals from justice. FBI San Diego Division Chief Stacey Moy added that such devices do not simply offer communication services, but facilitate transnational crime.
Three other defendants in the case have already pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Eight more defendants have not yet been extradited, and one is wanted.
source : https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/dis...cketeering
Elhacen was one of 17 defendants in the case initiated as part of Operation Trojan Shield. During this sting operation, the FBI operated the ANOM platform, which was used by criminals for encrypted correspondence. This allowed agents to intercept more than 27 million messages and detain hundreds of people around the world.
According to the court, Elhacen was involved in the distribution of ANOM devices from Colombia, and also participated in drug trafficking and money laundering. He pleaded guilty in 2024 to charges of forming a criminal organization. Elhacen facilitated the sale of the devices for more than 18 months, helping to transport at least 15 kilograms of illegal substances.
An analysis of ANOM messages showed that Elhacen actively promoted the devices in Colombia and other countries. He organized technical support, subscription renewals, and was involved in setting prices for the services.
In 2021, Elhacen was arrested in Colombia and later extradited to the United States. At his sentencing, U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said that even the most sophisticated technology cannot hide criminals from justice. FBI San Diego Division Chief Stacey Moy added that such devices do not simply offer communication services, but facilitate transnational crime.
Three other defendants in the case have already pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Eight more defendants have not yet been extradited, and one is wanted.
source : https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/dis...cketeering