U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has released additional information regarding the arrest of Gaithersburg resident Eric Tano Tataw, revealing that he allegedly raised over $110,000 to fund separatist militias in Cameroon. He is also accused of directing violent acts, including mutilations referred to as “Garriing,” and using social media to incite and coordinate attacks on civilians.
According to ICE, “An investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with the FBI and the Diplomatic Security Service led to the federal indictment of Cameroonian national, Eric Tano Tataw, 38, of Gaithersburg, Maryland. Tataw, also known as “the Garri Master,” is charged with conspiring to provide material support to armed separatist groups in Cameroon and making threatening communications to injure or kidnap Cameroonian civilians.
“The indictment of Eric Tataw reflects the unwavering commitment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations to combat transnational crime and pursue justice for victims around the world,” said ICE HSI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy. “Although residing in Maryland, Tataw is alleged to have played a significant role in promoting violence and human rights violations in Cameroon by supporting a separatist movement. These groups have been linked to heinous crimes against civilians, and this case highlights how such atrocities can be financed and directed from afar. HSI will continue to pursue those who facilitate violence—no matter where they are located—and I commend the dedicated agents, analysts, and prosecutors who worked tirelessly on this case. Together, we continue to uphold the rule of law — at home and abroad.”…