Canada lists Somalia’s Shebab as a terrorist group

OTTAWA: Canada has listed the Somalia-based hardline Shebab militia as a terrorist organization, Public Safety Minister Vic Toews announced Monday.

The listing became effective as of March 5.

It prohibits all persons in Canada as well as Canadians abroad from knowingly dealing with assets owned or controlled by the al Qaeda-linked group.

Knowingly participating in, contributing to or facilitating the group’s facilities is now considered a criminal offence. And the government may seize funds linked to the Shebab, spelled al Shabaab in Canada. “This government will not tolerate terrorism and is determined that terrorist groups do not receive support from Canadian sources,” said Toews, alluding to reports that the Shebab has sought to radicalize and recruit young Canadians — especially among the Somali community — and raise funds in Canada.

The Shebab, whose leadership has proclaimed allegiance to Osama bin Laden’s al Qaeda network, controls most of Somalia’s south and central regions. afp

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2010\03\09\story_9-3-2010_pg4_5