Photo: KENT NISHIMURA / AFP / Getty Images
Multiple individuals have been arrested in connection with a plot to attack the UFC Freedom 250 event held at the White House on Sunday (June 14). According to FBI Director Kash Patel, the suspects discussed plans to use drones and a gunman to cause harm during the event. The FBI and Secret Service uncovered the plot through messages exchanged between the suspects.
The arrests were part of a multistate operation involving the FBI and the Secret Service. The agencies became aware of the threat on June 10 and acted swiftly to prevent the attack. "Thanks to the rapid action of the FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice, multiple individuals are now in custody and the allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold," Patel stated in a post on X.
The plot allegedly involved using explosive-laden drones to create mass panic and a gunman to target crowds. The suspects were reportedly discussing these plans in Signal chats. The FBI has not disclosed how far along the planning was when they intercepted the messages. CNN reported that charges related to the arrests are expected to be announced this morning.
The UFC event was part of the celebrations for America's 250th anniversary and coincided with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. The event took place on the South Lawn of the White House, with security managed by the Secret Service and other agencies. According to ABC News, five individuals have been arrested, including one from Cincinnati, Ohio.
As the investigation continues, Patel urged the public to report any suspicious activity to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or visiting http://tips.fbi.gov.