Local Somali-Americans are reacting to a federal investigation into possible terror recruitment in San Diego.
Prosecutors have convened a grand jury to investigate allegations that San Diego County Somali-Americans were urged "to attend a terrorist training camp in the Middle East and return to launch attacks on fellow Americans," according to a published report.
Another grand jury is conducting a similar investigation in Minneapolis, according to published reports. The Twin Cities were home to Shirwa Ahmed, 27, the first known U.S. citizen who was a suicide bomber.
Some Somali-Americans in City Heights said they noticed FBI agents interviewing young Somali men over the past few weeks. Mohamed Dad says he is surprised at the inquiry.
"This is not representing Somali public opinion, we don't support terrorism," he said.
Other Somali-Americans said they understand why the U.S. is concerned about possible terrorism. But they also find it hard to believe that a Somali would commit a terrorist act in the U.S.
"Somalis are a peace loving people, and they came to this country just like anyone else, to have a better future," said Yusef Omar.
Dozens of people from the local Somali community -- the fifth largest in America -- have been interviewed by the FBI, reported the voiceofsandiego.org.
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"I suspect they're looking into any kind of organized financing, material support, and/or indoctrination and radicalization of Somali youth," defense attorney Mahir Sherif told the news Web site.
The local Somali population is believed to be around 20,000 and 30,000.
