The FBI has announced the prevention of a suspected scheme to target the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington DC. Authorities have apprehended five individuals and identified 23 others linked to a possible network of conspirators.
The alleged plan involved using drones carrying explosives to target structures near the event venue on Sunday, triggering a mass evacuation and guiding crowds towards a predetermined sniper team. Subsequently, a “second wave” was purportedly set to breach the White House gate, officials disclosed.
Initial awareness of the scheme dates back to June 10 when an individual was detained in Cincinnati. Subsequently, Signal chats revealed conversations among multiple individuals discussing plans to attack the UFC event.
An iPhone belonging to one suspect displayed interactions involving at least 23 Signal users discussing preliminary activities. Several participants were reportedly planning to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 to finalize preparations for the intended assault.
Allegedly, one suspect mentioned targeting capitalist elites and politicians who have received contributions from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The operation involved at least 12 FBI field offices.
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 outside the National Capital Region. Through swift action by the FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state effort, multiple suspects are now in custody, and planned attacks were averted.”
Patel continued, “While this outcome showcases exemplary investigative work, it reflects the standard operating procedure of our law enforcement team. We are equipped to identify, respond to, and prosecute those who jeopardize American lives, especially during major events like the significant UFC 250 fight. We appreciate the efforts of our agents and partners, and the investigation is ongoing with updates forthcoming. We urge the public to report any suspicious activity to 1-800-CALL-FBI or http://tips.fbi.gov.”