MINNEAPOLIS — Prosecutors say two Minnesota women accused of funneling money to a terrorist group in Somalia knew the group was engaged in terrorist activities.
During opening statements Tuesday in the trial of 35-year-old Amina Farah Ali and 64-year-old Hawo Mohamed Hassan, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Paulsen said the government intercepted phone calls that will show the women communicated with a leader of al-Shabab and other militants.
Paulsen says when the women learned about the terrorist activities, they rejoiced and would raise more money for al-Shabab.
Ali's attorney, Dan Scott, says his client collected money for the needy. Scott noted his client is a refugee herself. And he says she has a "built-in need" to help others.
Hassan's attorney will make his opening statement after the government presents its case.
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