Kenyan Man Sentenced to Life for Plotting 9/11 Style Plane Attack
Cholo Abdi Abdullah, a 35-year-old Kenyan man, was found guilty by a New York City jury in November 2024 on six counts of conspiracy to hijack a U.S. airliner and crash it into an Atlanta building. He was sentenced to life in prison by U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres on Monday. Prosecutors described the plot as a Sept. 11-style attack targeting Atlanta's tallest building on behalf of a foreign terrorist organization. During the trial, evidence was presented that suggested Abdullah had been trained for the operation and had discussed plans with others. Federal authorities indicated that Abdullah's actions posed a significant threat to national security. The court proceedings highlighted the seriousness of the charges, as they involved a detailed plan to carry out a large-scale attack. Abdullah's conviction is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to prevent terrorism and ensure public safety. The case underscores the importance of vigilance against potential threats to major urban centers like Atlanta.