Trucking Companies’ Ties With Local Mosque Raise Concerns

Background on the Islamic Center of Maineville

The Islamic Center of Maineville, located in a small village in southwest Ohio, has been the subject of community concerns. Its construction began in April 2022, and since then, it has become a symbol of the growing presence of foreign-owned trucking companies in the area. Fox News Digital has found substantial financial connections between these trucking companies, the mosque, and the government of Uzbekistan.

Financial Contributions and Violations

Several trucking companies linked to the mosque have attracted attention due to repeated safety and compliance violations. Notable among them is Buraq Limited, which contributed at least $28,000 via 28 donations. This company has faced violations including invalid commercial driver’s licenses and expired medical cards.

Premier Trucking Group Inc., with over 100 violations, donated $25,000 to the mosque. Additionally, Foko Logistics LLC made a single $20,000 donation, despite numerous vehicle-maintenance violations. Maca Transportation and Services LLC, which donated $7,000, has been cited for multiple violations, including English proficiency failures.

Larger Donations and Community Impact

Phoenix Cargo provided a significant $150,000 donation and organized fundraising efforts, although it contends this amount is a minor portion of the mosque’s budget. This company has been cited for numerous safety violations such as ELD tampering. Despite these donations, the mosque maintains it does not seek contributions from foreign entities.

Trucking Industry Concerns

Nodawolf, a local researcher who closely monitors trucking fraud, highlights that many donor companies show non-compliance with U.S. safety regulations. He raises questions about whether these companies systematically exploit regulatory gaps.

Ohio Republican state Rep. Michelle Teska is addressing trucking fraud issues by proposing legislation to enforce English-language proficiency in CDL examinations.

Community and Law Enforcement Reactions

Local residents express anxiety over the rise of Uzbek-owned trucking companies, fearing accusations of Islamophobia or other biases. Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell recognizes increased criminal cases involving Uzbeks, calling for heightened awareness among law enforcement.

The Hamilton Township Police Department has boosted traffic safety enforcement, focusing on commercial vehicles to enhance roadway safety.

Demographic Insights

According to 2024 census data, approximately 3,800 Uzbekistan-born individuals live in Ohio; however, this might underrepresent the actual number, with estimates suggesting 4,000 Uzbek families in Southern Ohio. These families are integral to the local trucking industry.

Uzbek community leaders highlight their efforts to blend into local communities, emphasizing cultural contributions beyond trucking.