FBI Foils Drone and Sniper Attack Plot Against White House UFC Event
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has successfully disrupted a plot targeting a recent Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held on the South Lawn of the White House. Kash Patel, head of the agency, announced on Tuesday morning that multiple suspects were in custody following a “multi-state operation”.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that the alleged plan involved using explosive-laden drones to strike nearby buildings, aiming to cause panic and direct fleeing crowds towards a waiting sniper team. A “second wave” of assailants was then reportedly intended to storm the White House gate.
One suspect was arrested in Cincinnati last week. Investigators gained access to encrypted Signal chats where the alleged plot was discussed. While Patel’s social media statement did not explicitly confirm these operational details, he linked to a news report that included them.
Patel emphasised the FBI's capability “to detect, respond to and bring to justice those who threaten the lives of American citizens – particularly during large gatherings like the historic UFC 250 fight.” The Secret Service collaborated closely with the FBI throughout the investigation, with formal comments expected in court filings.
The UFC event, part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, coincided with former President Trump's 80th birthday and saw attendance from administration officials and public figures.
