Five individuals have been detained by US law enforcement officials in connection with alleged 'planned attacks' aimed at a Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held at the White House last weekend. The FBI director, Kash Patel, confirmed that a multi-state operation successfully disrupted these potential threats, with additional details expected to emerge once formal charges are unsealed.
The arrests were made across various US states, including Ohio, Missouri, and California, according to a law enforcement official familiar with the matter who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press. The nature of the specific threat has not been fully disclosed, but reports from Fox News, cited by Patel, suggested the alleged plot involved the use of explosive-laden drones, snipers, and even a potential attempt to storm the White House gates.
The FBI reportedly became aware of the potential threat on 10 June, just four days before the mixed-martial arts event was staged on the South Lawn of the White House. Patel praised the swift actions of the FBI, its partners, and the Department of Justice, stating in a post on X that their collaboration led to the arrests and 'stopped cold' the alleged planned attacks. The first arrest reportedly took place in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The UFC event coincided with Donald Trump's 80th birthday, with the former president reportedly seeking to link the fights to broader celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Secret Service also played a crucial role in the operation, with Director Sean Curran stating that special agents, mission support personnel, and technical security teams worked 'around the clock' to identify and apprehend those responsible. Curran added that formal comments regarding the specifics of the case would be made through court filings.
While the full extent of the plot's realism or advancement remains unclear, the rapid response from US authorities highlights the ongoing vigilance required to protect high-profile events and government installations. The disruption underscores the complex challenges faced by security agencies in mitigating diverse and evolving threats.