Federal authorities in the United States have announced the disruption of a major terrorist plot targeting Los Angeles, with four individuals now in custody. The group allegedly planned to carry out a series of bombings on New Year's Eve.
Planned Attacks Across Multiple Locations
According to officials from the Department of Justice and the FBI, the alleged plot involved improvised explosive devices (IEDs) intended for at least five separate locations across Los Angeles and Orange County. The attacks were scheduled to begin on 31 December.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated on social media that the group, identified as the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF), was also planning to target agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in their vehicles. She credited an intense investigation with preventing a "massive and horrific terror plot."
Arrests and Explosive Testing
The four suspects were taken into custody over the weekend in Lucerne Valley. Reports indicate they were testing explosive devices believed to be intended for the alleged attacks at the time of their arrest. All four have been charged with conspiracy and possession of a destructive device.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the bureau had disrupted what he described as a "credible, imminent terrorist threat." He also announced that a fifth individual, believed to be connected to the group, was arrested in New Orleans for allegedly planning a separate violent attack.
Ideology and Group Background
Officials described TILF as a far-left, anti-government organisation that is pro-Palestine and anti-capitalist. The group's social media presence suggests its goal is to liberate "Turtle Island," an Indigenous name for North America, from what it calls the "illegal American empire."
Recent posts from the group have drawn parallels between the conflict in Palestine and the treatment of Indigenous peoples in America, stating that "peaceful protest will never be enough" and advocating for resistance. At a protest in November, members were seen with signs reading "Death to ICE."
Patel and Bondi praised the work of investigators and law enforcement partners, stating their actions "undoubtedly saved countless lives." The Los Angeles division of the FBI is scheduled to hold a press conference to provide further information on the case.
