The US Justice Department has announced charges against five men for an alleged plot to attack the White House during a UFC event last Sunday. The suspects are accused of planning to use drones armed with explosives and snipers to target government officials and attendees.
The FBI made arrests in Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska, and California. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the plot was disrupted before it could be carried out, praising law enforcement for their vigilance.
FBI Director Kash Patel faced criticism from the Secret Service after prematurely announcing the plot on social media before all suspects were arrested. Secret Service Deputy Director Matt Quinn said the service chose not to leak the investigation to maintain its integrity, noting that suspects remain at large.
Patel has a history of sharing unverified information online, including falsely claiming a suspect was in custody after a killing last year. The Senate meanwhile failed to advance a war powers resolution on Iran.
