Federal authorities say they disrupted an alleged plot targeting a UFC event held on the White House grounds and arrested five people accused of discussing plans for violence during the gathering.
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Court documents unsealed Tuesday allege that members of a group communicated through encrypted messaging platforms and discussed potential attacks involving firearms and drones ahead of the event, which took place Sunday on the South Lawn.
The FBI said it became aware of the possible threat on June 10 and worked with federal, state and local partners to investigate. Authorities said multiple suspects were taken into custody before the event, per the Associated Press.
FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement that the alleged plans were stopped through a multi-state operation involving law enforcement agencies.
According to charging documents, investigators recovered firearms and reviewed messages exchanged among approximately 20 participants. The filings allege some members of the group discussed targeting the event and shared maps, photographs and logistical information.
Authorities have not alleged that any attack was carried out, and court records do not indicate that explosives-equipped drones were recovered.
Among those charged is Tycen Proper, a 19-year-old Ohio man. Investigators say he admitted participating in planning discussions, though court filings indicate he told authorities he did not intend to personally carry out violence at the event.
Other suspects identified in court documents are from California, Missouri and Nebraska.
The White House event, attended by President Donald Trump and thousands of spectators, proceeded without incident.
The investigation remains ongoing, and federal authorities said additional information could emerge as court proceedings continue.
