FBI says it foiled drone plot targeting White House UFC event
The FBI said it disrupted an alleged plot to attack a UFC event staged on the White House South Lawn on 15 June, an event tied to President Trump’s birthday and the run-up to the Declaration of Independence anniversary. Director Kash Patel announced on 16 June that “multiple individuals are now in custody, and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”
According to officials, roughly 23 people were involved and at least five have been arrested in Ohio, Missouri and California. The bureau says the plan called for explosive-laden drones aimed at buildings near the event, followed by a “second wave” intended to storm the White House gates. The FBI said it learned of the threat on 10 June, days before the plotters allegedly planned to travel toward Washington.
The charges and the alleged scale remain to be tested in court; the figures so far come from the government’s own account. Vice-President Vance characterised it as “a coordinated, planned terrorist plot” rather than the work of “a few guys doing crazy stuff.”