In a landmark case that underscores the evolving nature of global terrorism financing, a 36-year-old Toronto resident, Khalilullah Yousuf, has pleaded guilty to two charges related to what authorities are calling the largest terrorism financing scheme in Canadian history. This case highlights the challenges faced by Canadian law enforcement in tracking illicit financial flows in the digital age.
The Charges and Guilty Plea
On May 12, 2025, Yousuf entered guilty pleas in the Superior Court of Justice in Toronto to two charges under the Criminal Code: Newswire
- Providing property or services for terrorist purposes
- Participating in the activity of a terrorist group
These charges stem from activities conducted between September 2019 and December 2022, during which Yousuf facilitated the transfer of funds to overseas terrorist organizations. CP24
Modus Operandi: Cryptocurrency and Money Transfers
Yousuf’s operations involved the use of cryptocurrency and traditional money transfer services to funnel funds to terrorist entities abroad. The anonymity and decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies posed significant challenges for investigators, reflecting a broader trend in the utilization of digital currencies for illicit activities.CP24
Implications for National Security
This case has significant implications for Canada’s national security framework. It underscores the need for enhanced monitoring of digital financial transactions and the importance of international cooperation in tracking and intercepting funds destined for terrorist activities.
Historical Context and Precedents
Canada has previously dealt with terrorism financing cases, notably the 2006 “Toronto 18” plot, which involved plans to detonate bombs in Southern Ontario. However, Yousuf’s case is distinguished by the scale of the financial operations and the sophisticated use of digital currencies, marking a new chapter in the country’s efforts to combat terrorism financing. en.wikipedia.org
The guilty plea of Khalilullah Yousuf serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics employed by individuals to support terrorist activities. It highlights the pressing need for Canadian authorities to adapt to the digital landscape and strengthen mechanisms to detect and prevent the financing of terrorism.
Note: The information provided is based on available reports as of May 15, 2025. Further details may emerge as the case progresses.
So what’s worse? Genocide fund raising (to raise money for arms, building illegal infrastructure and housing/factories on stolen lands and murdering/expelling/evicting the indigenous) or Freedom fighting fund raising (called Terrorism by the Western Countries but UN describes as a way to fight back an occupier or oppressor with all means necessary).