A 19-year-old resident of Kent, Washington, has been apprehended as part of an extensive investigation into a foiled terrorism plot connected to Halloween weekend. Saed Ali Mirreh was arrested by the FBI, marking the eighth arrest related to alleged plans for a terrorist attack in Michigan.
Details of the Arrest
Mirreh was allegedly in contact with seven other individuals linked to the case. He and his co-conspirator, 19-year-old Tomas-Kaan Jimenez-Guzel, face serious charges. Both are accused of conspiring to provide support to ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Background on the Plot
Five suspects have already been detained for their involvement in planning a potential attack in Detroit. These individuals include Mohmed Ali, 20; Majed Mahmoud, 20; Ayob Nasser, 19; and two minors. They reportedly engaged in activities such as purchasing firearms and scouting locations like gay bars and an amusement park for possible attacks.
Network of Alleged Terror Supporters
- Mirreh is under scrutiny for prior involvement in a counterterrorism investigation dating back to 2023.
- This investigation revealed Mirreh’s discussions about potential attacks on behalf of ISIS.
- Following the recent arrests, Mirreh and Jimenez-Guzel intended to travel to Turkey to join ISIS fighters.
The FBI’s complaints indicate that the conspiracy had international ties, with co-conspirators located in the U.K. and Sweden. These connections facilitate a broader network engaging in terrorism-related planning.
Responses and Ongoing Investigations
Authorities raised concerns about the seriousness of the alleged plot. Rebecca Weiner, deputy commissioner for intelligence and counterterrorism at NYPD, emphasized the need for vigilance. She noted the financial backgrounds of some individuals, indicating that such associations can lead from virtual interactions to real-world actions.
The FBI’s efforts included monitoring communications on social media platforms, revealing ongoing interactions between Mirreh and known ISIS supporters overseas. Law enforcement is focusing on the alarming trend that associates actions in the digital space with potential physical violence.
