19-Year-Old Arrested for Alleged ISIS-Linked Plot Against US Military Base

Arrest of Former National Guard Member

U.S. federal authorities have apprehended a 19-year-old ex-member of the Michigan Army National Guard, accused of attempting to support a plot linked to ISIS aimed at a significant military installation in Michigan. The individual, Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said from Melvindale, Michigan, faces charges for allegedly trying to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) and for disseminating information about destructive devices, as stated by the Department of Justice.

According to investigators, Said devised plans for a mass shooting targeting the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) facility located at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Michigan. Federal officials confirmed that the purported attack was thwarted before it could be executed. Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, remarked, “This defendant is charged with planning a deadly attack on a U.S. military base here at home for ISIS.”

Bai emphasized that law enforcement's intervention averted potential casualties and assured that authorities would persist in their rigorous pursuit of terrorism-related cases. The complaint indicates that Said allegedly shared his intentions with two undercover law enforcement agents during meetings earlier this year. Prosecutors assert that the undercover agents later suggested they would carry out the attack on behalf of ISIS, prompting Said to actively assist in the operation.

Details of the Alleged Plot

Investigators Say Suspect Conducted Reconnaissance

Federal investigators claim that Said supplied armor-piercing ammunition and magazines for the intended attack while also aiding in the operational planning related to the TACOM facility. Authorities allege he conducted reconnaissance by flying a drone over the military complex, trained undercover operatives in firearm handling, and discussed the use of Molotov cocktails during the assault. Prosecutors further allege he identified potential entry points into the facility and pinpointed buildings that could be targeted during the operation. On May 13, the day investigators believe was chosen for the attack, Said was arrested after approaching an area near TACOM and allegedly launching his drone in support of the plan, according to federal authorities. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is spearheading the investigation.

Donald M. Holstead, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, stated that this case highlights the ongoing threat of extremist-inspired violence against the American homeland. “The defendant allegedly tried to carry out an attack on a military facility in support of ISIS, which was disrupted thanks to the good work of the FBI and our partners,” Holstead remarked.

Concerns Over Insider Threats

Former National Guard Link Raises Security Questions

This case has garnered attention due to Said's previous service in the Michigan Army National Guard. Brigadier General Rhett R. Cox, commanding general of Army Counterintelligence Command, noted that the arrest serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by insider threats within military settings. “The arrest of this former soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation,” Cox stated, commending the collaboration between military investigators and the FBI.

Officials have not disclosed the duration of Said's service in the National Guard or whether he had authorized access to sensitive military infrastructure during the time the plot was allegedly being developed. If found guilty, Said could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each charge outlined in the complaint. Prosecutors are likely to seek pretrial detention, arguing that he poses a danger to the community and a potential flight risk. Federal authorities emphasized that the complaint contains allegations only, and Said is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.