Minnesota (Sahan Post) — The Trump administration announced today that it has opened a federal investigation into alleged tax fraud in the state of Minnesota, following claims that misappropriated funds may have reached the Somali militant group al-Shabaab. The move was confirmed by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The investigation will examine whether individuals in Minnesota, particularly beneficiaries of state-funded programs and government-supported initiatives, diverted public funds and where those funds ultimately ended up. The decision places significant scrutiny on members of the Somali-American community, many of whom send millions of dollars each year to support families in Somalia. The announcement comes days after former President Donald Trump remarked, “There is no reason to send money to Somalia.”
Although the allegations that Minnesota taxpayer money reached al-Shabaab remain unverified, the implications are profound. Minnesota is home to the largest Somali population in the United States, and the inquiry has raised concerns that an unproven accusation could unfairly impact the reputation of the broader community.
Community leaders and analysts say the investigation could lead to increased political and social pressure on Somali-Americans, with many worried it may be used to justify broader policy or enforcement actions.
Sahan Post
info@sahanpost.com
Discover more from SahanPost - English
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.