Extradited Suspect from Czech Republic Faces Charges in Iran-Backed Murder Plot

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams announced the extradition of Polad Omarov from the Czech Republic to face charges related to a murder-for-hire plot directed from Iran targeting a U.S. citizen of Iranian origin, who is a journalist, author, and human rights activist. Omarov, a leader within an Eastern European organized crime group, allegedly worked with others to attempt the murder on instructions from individuals in Iran. The plot involved surveillance, reconnaissance, and the procurement of weapons, but the assassination was not carried out. Two other defendants, including one residing in Iran, were previously arrested on the charges. The U.S. Attorney emphasized the unwavering resolve to bring to justice individuals attempting to stifle free speech in the U.S., especially at the behest of a malign foreign regime.