THE WASHINGTON POST
NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. Mazen Mokhtar, a computer professional trained at Johns Hopkins University, is a familiar face to young activist Muslim men in New Jersey, often delivering what acquaintances describe as mild speeches extolling marriage and religious piety.
But Wednesday, Mokhtar, a 36-year-old Egyptian-born American citizen, found himself issuing a statement denying government accusations that he has aided violent terrorists. Some of those who know him expressed surprise at allegations that he worked with a British man who is accused of soliciting funds for terrorism by operating jihadist Web sites.
I do not support and I have never supported any action that harms innocent people, Mokhtar said in the statement, released by his attorney. I have never knowingly assisted any terrorist group. (this guy sure doesn't sound very convincing)
Mokhtar has often lectured to youth groups at mosques, has spoken at Rutgers University rallies supporting the Palestinian cause and was an invited speaker at a summer camp run by the Young Muslims of North America scheduled for later this month.
From our experience, he is a very nice guy, said Omar Ranginwala, an official with the Young Muslims group who is involved with the camp. Mohktar, a father of three, is soft spoken, and not known to have been associated with extremist views or Web sites.
We are all very surprised that this thing came up, he said, adding that at this point group members dont have much knowledge about it.
This years camp is to be held at Villanova Academy, an Islamic school in Pennsylvania, and its theme is A Few Good Men/Lives of the Khulafa Rashideen (Pious Caliphs).