Federal authorities announced the arrest of four individuals linked to a plot for coordinated bombing attacks on New Year’s Eve in Southern California. The suspects, identified as Audrey Carroll, Zachary Page, Dante Gaffield, and Tina Lai, are connected to the extremist group named the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF).
Details of the New Year’s Eve Attack Plot
The arrests took place last week in Lucerne Valley, close to the desert city of Twentynine Palms, where a Marine Corps base is located. All four suspects hail from the Los Angeles area. They face charges of conspiracy and possession of an unregistered destructive device in connection with their alleged plans.
Charges and Possible Future Legal Action
During a press conference, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated that further charges may be forthcoming against the group. While authorities acknowledged that additional members might exist, they believe they have apprehended all individuals directly involved in the plot.
Specifics of the Alleged Bombing Plans
According to the criminal complaint, Audrey Carroll supplied a handwritten document titled “Operation Midnight Sun” to a confidential source within the FBI. This document outlined the intention to plant explosive devices at five locations, targeting two companies at midnight on New Year’s Eve.
- Devices were to be complex pipe bombs.
- Instructions on making the bombs were included.
- A plan to avoid leaving traceable evidence was also detailed.
Evidence and Arrest Details
Investigation revealed a campsite littered with bomb-making materials. The suspects allegedly gathered components, including PVC pipes, potassium nitrate, charcoal, sulfur powder, and materials for fuses.
Agents arrested the group after witnessing activities to construct the explosives under a tent designed to protect their work from sunlight.
Communications and Ideology
Carroll and other conspirators reportedly created a Signal chat called the “Order of the Black Lotus,” viewed as a radical segment of TILF. This platform was utilized to discuss aspects of their bombing plot.
Upon searching Carroll’s residence, investigators discovered materials connected to TILF, including provocative posters inscribed with slogans like “DEATH TO ICE” and “DEATH TO AMERICA, LONG LIVE TURTLE ISLAND & PALESTINE.”
The suspects are anticipated to make their initial court appearance later today. This ongoing investigation underscores the serious threats posed by extremist groups and their potential impact on public safety.
