MPAC CONDEMNS MICHIGAN MILITIA PLOT & ATTACKS ON MOSCOW SUBWAY

(Washington, DC - 3/29/2010)—The Muslim Public Affairs Council today condemned the alleged terror plot being carried out by a Michigan-based Christian militia group, and a set of terrifying suicide bomb attacks in Moscow which killed dozens this morning.

According to an indictment released today, nine members of the “Hutaree” militia group were charged with conspiring to murder a police officer and then plant explosives at the site of the officer’s funeral with the intent of killing more law enforcement officials. Media reports indicate that the militia members targeted law enforcement as part of their armed struggle against the American government.

At least 37 people were killed this morning at two underground subway stops during the early morning rush hour, one underneath the offices of the KGB and the other near the headquarters of major media outlets. More than 60 others were reportedly injured in the attacks.

“Today’s incidents deliver a powerful message about the power of hate to wreak devastation,” said Executive Director Salam Al-Marayati. “We commend law enforcement for disrupting the deadly plot in Michigan, which serves as tragic reminder of the rise of hate groups in our country and should mobilize all Americans to work for mutual understanding and acceptance.”

The Southern Poverty Law Center counted 932 active hate groups in the United States in 2009. Since the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, the Southern Poverty Law Center has documented 75 domestic terrorist plots, most of which involved individuals with extreme antigovernment views.

Founded in 1988, MPAC is an American institution which informs and shapes public opinion and policy by serving as a trusted resource to decision makers in government, media and policy institutions. MPAC is also committed to developing leaders with the purpose of enhancing the political and civic participation of Muslim Americans.