DEARBORN, Mich. — Two men are facing federal charges related to an alleged plot to carry out a terror attack planned for Halloween weekend. Authorities reportedly discovered over 1,600 rounds of ammunition, multiple firearms, and tactical gear during searches of their homes and storage facilities.
The FBI has revealed that Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud were charged after federal agents executed raids connected to their suspected activities. A detailed criminal complaint outlines their alleged roles in acquiring weapons and ammunition intended for use in a terrorist act, with the men set to appear in court later today.
According to the filing in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, the investigation uncovered communications suggesting that Ali and a juvenile accomplice were planning an attack on behalf of the Islamic State. The complaint says that Ali purchased several firearms and accessories in the months leading up to the planned assault, including a shotgun and an AR-15-style rifle, which he allegedly acquired during the period when discussions about the attack were ongoing.
Investigators noted that Mahmoud also secured an AR-15-style rifle and later purchased an extensive quantity of ammunition. Both suspects, along with the juvenile, reportedly practiced shooting at various gun ranges in the weeks before the planned attack. The group is said to have utilized encrypted communication platforms to disseminate extremist materials and plans, which raised red flags for federal investigators.
The legal documents indicate that one of the co-conspirators was flagged by Customs and Border Protection upon returning to the U.S. in August, with authorities discovering ominous internet searches related to ISIS and military gear on his phone. Although Ali and Mahmoud weren’t directly involved in a group call among other conspirators, a confidential informant was present, providing authorities with insights into the group’s intentions.
The complaint details conversations where the group discussed potential attack locations, potentially eyeing clubs in Ferndale, Michigan, known for their nightlife. Just before Halloween, the juvenile reportedly mentioned to Ali that discussions among his “brothers” hinted at executing their plan.
Investigators believe that the language exchanged among the group included references to previous terror incidents, with one conversation suggesting that the suspects intended to emulate the infamous 2015 attacks in Paris. Days before their intended assault, the juvenile is alleged to have spoken with an individual who advocates for extremist ideologies, discussing the importance of acting on their intentions.
As authorities continued their operation, federal agents found a significant cache of weapons and tactical gear at the homes of both men. This included several firearms, tactical vests, and other equipment, prompting questions about the seriousness of the allegations against them.
In response to the charges, Amir Makled, representing Ali, characterized his client as a 20-year-old U.S. citizen with a genuine interest in recreational shooting. Makled contended that there is no substantive evidence linking Ali to any planned terrorist activity, suggesting that the prosecution may lack a solid case in this high-profile investigation.