The US Federal Bureau of Investigation says it foiled an alleged attack plan targeting a mixed martial arts event held on the White House lawn on Sunday.
The event is said to have been held to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Sunday was also President Donald Trump’s birthday. He watched the matches from ringside.
FBI Director Kash Patel reported on Tuesday in his social media post that the FBI and its partners became aware of a potential threat on June 10. He said, “allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”
FOX News cited officials as saying that the alleged plan involved using explosive-laden drones to hit buildings near the event, and an additional plot was allegedly planned to storm the White House gate.
FOX News reported that investigators had identified more than 20 people as part of a potential network of plotters by examining chats on a messaging app. It also said five people were in custody as of Monday.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case.