FBI Arrests Oklahoma Man for Alleged Election Day Attack in ISIS Plot
Suspect Identified as Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi
Authorities have apprehended a 27-year-old man, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, a citizen of Afghanistan currently residing in Oklahoma City, for allegedly planning a violent attack on Election Day in allegiance to the extremist group Islamic State.
Details of the Alleged Conspiracy
FBI Director Christopher Wray stated, “This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland.” Powers were to stockpile firearms, liquidate family assets, and facilitate the relocation of relatives to foreign nations.
Charges Filed Against Tawhedi
Tawhedi is formally charged with multiple offenses, including providing support to a foreign terrorist organization, conspiracy to commit violent acts, and procuring firearms and ammunition for unlawful purposes.
Involvement of Co-Conspirators
Investigators revealed that Tawhedi collaborated with a juvenile relative, also of Afghan nationality, who remains unnamed. Authorities suspect that he engaged with ISIS propaganda online and supported a charity allegedly associated with the extremist group. Google records were referenced in the investigation, illuminating his online behavior.
Planned Attack Specifics
In the ongoing case, federal agents have determined that Tawhedi researched surveillance setups for prominent locations such as the White House and the Washington Monument. Additionally, he investigated various states’ gun laws, presumably seeking locations with fewer restrictions.
Intent and Preparations for Violence
On October 7, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator attempted to acquire AK-47 rifles and ammunition, engaging in the purchase through individuals who were undercover FBI operatives. The collaboration concluded with their arrest.
Alleged Statements to Authorities
Following his arrest, Tawhedi allegedly acknowledged intentions of launching an attack targeting large gatherings and expressed a willingness to die in the process. He entered the United States in September 2021 on a special immigrant visa, bringing his spouse and child with him.
Ongoing Efforts Against Terrorism
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the commitment of federal authorities to combat the threat that ISIS poses to U.S. national security, vowing to investigate and prosecute those who seek to inflict harm on the American public.
