FBI Director Kash Patel said early Friday that the agency thwarted a “potential terrorist attack” planned for the Halloween weekend.
In a brief statement posted on X, Patel said multiple suspects were arrested in Michigan in connection with an alleged plot to carry out a violent attack. Patel did not say what charges, if any, the suspects face.
“Thanks to the men and women of the FBI and law enforcement everywhere, standing guard 24/7 and carrying out our mission to defend the homeland,” Patel said.
Police in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit, confirmed FBI activity Friday morning.
"The Dearborn Police Department has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier this morning. We want to assure our residents that there is no threat to the community at this time," Dearborn Police said in a statement.
Scripps News Group reporters in Detroit confirmed that the FBI and other law enforcement agencies raided homes in Dearborn and nearby Inkster. According to The Associated Press, investigators believe the planned attack was inspired by Islamic State extremism that potentially stemmed from an online chatroom.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she was briefed by Patel about the alleged plot and thanked authorities for their response.
"As details continue to develop, I am grateful for the swift action of the FBI and MSP protecting Michiganders," Whitmer said in a statement.
