The FBI has announced the disruption of a suspected plan to target the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington DC. Authorities have apprehended five individuals and identified 23 others believed to be part of a potential network involved in the scheme.
According to officials, the alleged plot included using drones loaded with explosives to attack buildings near the event attended by Donald Trump. The plan aimed to trigger a mass evacuation and direct crowds towards a predetermined sniper team. Additionally, a “second wave” was reportedly intended to breach the White House gate.
The FBI first learned of the plan on June 10 when a person was arrested in Cincinnati, leading to the discovery of Signal chats where multiple individuals discussed targeting the UFC event. Authorities mentioned that one suspect’s iPhone contained conversations among at least 23 Signal users discussing pre-operational activities. Some of the participants were allegedly planning to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 to prepare for the attack.
One of the suspects claimed that the targets were capitalist elites and politicians associated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The FBI’s operation involved at least 12 field offices across the country.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated, “On June 10, the FBI and our law enforcement partners were alerted to a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. involving individuals from outside the National Capital Region. Thanks to swift action by the FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals have been apprehended, and alleged attacks have been thwarted.”
Patel emphasized the importance of vigilance during large gatherings like the UFC 250 event and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity. The investigation remains ongoing, and updates will be provided accordingly. Citizens can report suspicious behavior by contacting 1-800-CALL-FBI or visiting http://tips.fbi.gov.