Federal authorities announced the arrests of two Michigan men accused of planning an ISIS-inspired terrorist attack timed for Halloween, according to court documents unsealed Monday. The alleged plot, which investigators say was referred to by the suspects as “pumpkin day,” underscores ongoing concerns about homegrown extremism even as the United States continues to confront threats from abroad.
The men, identified as Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, are both U.S. citizens. Federal prosecutors allege they conspired to carry out an attack in Michigan inspired by the Islamic State, purchasing weapons and training with firearms in the months leading up to Halloween.
According to the Justice Department complaint, the two men allegedly acquired an AR-15-style rifle, a shotgun, and a “forced reset trigger that allows a shooter to increase the rate of fire in a semiautomatic weapon.” Prosecutors say they conducted weapons training alongside three other co-conspirators, practicing at gun ranges across the state and at outdoor locations.
The complaint notes that the group’s preparations mirrored those of attackers in previous acts of terror who “practiced shooting with firearms beforehand.” Authorities did not release details about a specific target or whether the suspects had the means to carry out their alleged plan.
The FBI’s investigation began after authorities reportedly became aware of extremist rhetoric in private communications. The men allegedly used code words to conceal their plans, including the term “pumpkin day” to describe the timing of their intended attack. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed how the plot was discovered or which federal task forces were involved in the arrests.
Ali and Mahmoud were taken into custody Friday and made initial court appearances earlier this week. They are being held pending further hearings. Federal officials have not commented on whether additional charges will be filed against the three alleged co-conspirators named in the complaint.
This story is developing…
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