The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has thwarted a major terrorist plot planned for Halloween after conducting an operation in the state of Michigan. Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the plan, which is allegedly linked to the ISIS terror group.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that a potential violent attack was stopped, though he did not release the number or identities of those arrested. However, local media have claimed that four people were detained.
According to a CNN report, the suspects are between 16 and 20 years old. They were allegedly discussing the terror plot in an online chat group affiliated with ISIS. The FBI revealed that it had successfully placed an undercover agent into the chat group at an early stage to monitor the plot.
Sources indicate the group was discussing potential attacks in US cities, although a final target and time had not been set. The investigation also uncovered videos of the suspects practicing at a shooting range. They were seen training with AK-47s and other automatic weapons, including practicing high-speed reloading drills.
The group’s conversations also included references to “Pumpkin Day,” which authorities believe was being used as a code word for Halloween. The FBI’s Detroit field office confirmed operations took place in the cities of Dearborn and Inkster. They have assured the public that there is no current threat.
Formal charges have not yet been filed against the arrested individuals, and the investigation is ongoing.
