Oklahoma City, OK — Federal authorities have apprehended a 27-year-old Afghan national, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, on charges that he was plotting a terrorist attack on Election Day under the guise of supporting the Islamic State group. Residing in Oklahoma City, Tawhedi faces multiple charges related to terrorism and firearms.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tawhedi allegedly sought to accumulate weapons and had initiated steps to liquidate his family’s assets with plans to move members overseas. FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that Tawhedi was purportedly motivated by ISIS ideologies in his attempt to orchestrate a violent act on U.S. soil.
The investigation revealed Tawhedi allegedly cooperated with a juvenile relative, also an Afghan citizen, in his plans. They stand accused of ingesting Islamic State propaganda and financially supporting a charity serving as a front for the terrorist organization. Details from an FBI affidavit indicate that Tawhedi researched surveillance and security measures around significant landmarks in Washington, D.C., and showed a preference for states with lenient gun laws, expressing interest in acquiring AK-47 assault rifles.
On October 7, Tawhedi along with the unnamed co-conspirator made contact with individuals who were in reality undercover FBI agents. The meeting, intended for purchasing firearms and ammunition, led to their arrest shortly after the exchange.
In an interrogation following his arrest, Tawhedi purportedly acknowledged his scheme to launch an attack on Election Day targeting densely populated venues. He reportedly expressed intentions to perish during the execution of the attack.
Tawhedi’s arrival in the United States dates back to September 2021 when he was admitted under a special immigrant visa along with his wife and young child. At the time of his arrest, he was established in Oklahoma City. It remains unclear if he has secured legal representation for his defense.
Attorney General Merrick Garland stressed the ongoing vigilance against threats from ISIS and its proponents, vowing to identify, investigate, and prosecute any individuals threatening the safety of Americans.
This case underscores the continuous challenges faced by U.S. law enforcement agencies in countering domestic threats linked to international terrorist organizations, necessitating persistent efforts in both intelligence and community outreach to preempt such plots. The national security apparatus remains on high alert, particularly around significant public events like national elections, to prevent any potential acts of terrorism.