A chilling network of ISIS-linked extremists, stretching across state lines from Michigan to New Jersey, has been dismantled by federal authorities. The coordinated investigation uncovered a disturbing plot involving a planned Halloween mass shooting and individuals actively attempting to travel overseas to join the Islamic State.
The Justice Department revealed the scope of the “sprawling federal investigation,” highlighting the use of encrypted messaging apps by the suspects to conceal their communications. Authorities allege that those involved had pledged allegiance to ISIS and maintained frequent contact between the cells in New Jersey and Michigan.
In Michigan, Ayob Asamil Nasser and brothers Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud face charges of conspiring to provide material support to ISIS. Investigators discovered a significant arsenal – AR-15-style rifles, shotguns, handguns, and nearly 1,700 rounds of ammunition – stockpiled for a planned attack codenamed “pumpkin,” intended for Halloween day.
The group’s alleged targets were deeply unsettling, including LGBTQ bars in Ferndale and a Jewish center. Evidence gathered during raids on October 31st included tactical vests, GoPro cameras, and ammunition magazines found in homes and a U-Haul storage unit, painting a picture of meticulous preparation.
Simultaneously, in New Jersey, Tomas Jimenez-Guzel and Saed Mirreh were arrested and charged with conspiring to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. Jimenez-Guzel was apprehended at Newark Liberty International Airport while attempting to fly to Turkey, allegedly en route to Syria.
Court documents reveal that the New Jersey suspects’ travel plans accelerated following the arrests in Michigan, indicating a direct connection and shared intent. The investigation suggests a network operating with a dual purpose: orchestrating attacks within the United States and facilitating travel for individuals seeking to join ISIS abroad.
The communication hub for these individuals appears to have been encrypted WhatsApp chats, labeled “Muslimeen,” where ISIS propaganda was shared, firearms training was arranged, and the “pumpkin” timeline was discussed. This digital trail proved crucial in unraveling the network’s connections.
Federal prosecutors emphasized their unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, vowing to pursue every lead and disrupt any future threats. The collaborative effort between the Michigan and New Jersey FBI offices was lauded as a successful model for countering extremist activity.
All defendants are currently in custody, facing serious charges related to providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization. While the complaints detail significant evidence, it’s crucial to remember that these are allegations, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that additional, sealed juvenile cases may be connected to this network. The focus remains on dismantling the remaining elements of this dangerous group and safeguarding communities from future harm.
