GARDEN CITY, Kan. (AP) —A southwest Kansas doctor who works with Somali refugees says some local residents fear the refugees because they mistakenly associate them with a militant group in Somalia.

Dr. John Birky said Friday that he’s seen social media postings and heard comments from Garden City-area residents questioning why refugees are coming to the community. He and other doctors are establishing a clinic, and he is working with refugees on a language program.

He made his comments after authorities announced that three members of a Kansas group Gavin Wright, Curtis Allen and Patrick Stein face federal charges related to an alleged plot to bomb an apartment building filled with Somali immigrants.

Birky said the refugees want to assimilate and pursue the American dream. He said many come to the United States to escape strife in Somalia.

Law enforcement sought to reassure Somalis and other immigrants in Garden City of their safety the day after the arrest of three men accused in the bomb plot.

Dalma Ali Warsame, a 34-year-old Somalian, listened to law enforcement Saturday talk about the arrests. He says the alleged plot has left his family afraid.

But Police Chief Michael Utz says he wants all Garden City residents to know they are safe.

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton on Saturday called the plot “highly disturbing” and “an affront to all Americans.”

Shocked to learn of terrorism plot in #GardenCity. My gratitude to our law enforcement officials who prevented the loss of innocent life.

— Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) October 15, 2016

Rep. Mike Pompeo, a Republican, also expressed gratitude to the “FBI and police who protect us from threats both foreign and domestic.”