Somali Man Arrested for Plotting ISIS Mall Attack
FBI arrests 18-year-old Somali man plotting ISIS mass-casualty attack at Mall of America.
2 min read
The FBI has arrested an 18-year-old Somali man accused of plotting a mass-casualty attack at the Mall of America in Minnesota, allegedly in support of ISIS. The arrest came after the man allegedly tried to pay an undercover agent $600 to acquire an AK-47 rifle and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Alleged Plot and Charges
Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud was arrested at a public park and charged with one count of receiving a firearm and ammunition knowing or having reason to believe they would be used to commit a felony or federal crime of terrorism. According to a federal criminal complaint, Mohamud intended to target a high-traffic public area at the Mall of America in Bloomington, a Minneapolis suburb, and told others he could kill between 30 and 60 people.
Law Enforcement Response
U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen called the arrest the culmination of an outstanding law enforcement and intelligence operation. He emphasized that the threat of terrorism in support of ISIS and other foreign terrorist organizations remains active and continuing. FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dotson stated that Mohamud was “100% committed” to carry out his jihad journey. Mohamud met with an undercover agent he believed to be a loyal member of ISIS to purchase an AK-47 rifle, along with 30-round magazines and 200 live rounds, all intended for the attack.
Community Reaction
Booker Hodges, police chief in Bloomington, expressed horror at the alleged plot and called for teaching young people about the values of the United States. He said, “It’s time that we start teaching our young people that this is a great country, and we’re not perfect, but this type of hatred for this country is something that I just don’t understand.” Authorities noted that Mohamud had expressed a desire to travel abroad to fight for a terrorist organization but, due to his inability to do so, allegedly turned his attention to Minnesota.
Investigation and Background
The FBI said the investigation began in late 2024 and involved undercover interactions. Mohamud, a U.S. citizen, referred to Somalia as his parents’ homeland. The case highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the FBI’s efforts to prevent such attacks.
Source: Daily Wire
