FBI Prevents Potential Attack on UFC Event Near the White House
FBI Thwarts Attack Plans at UFC Event
Washington: On Tuesday, the FBI announced that it successfully disrupted a potential attack targeting the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held last weekend, resulting in several arrests.
The UFC event took place on the lawns of the White House and was broadcast live to a large audience at South Park, where President Donald Trump, his cabinet members, and special guests were present. Thousands gathered to watch the event on large screens.
On June 10, the FBI, along with law enforcement partners, became aware of a possible threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. This threat involved individuals located outside the National Capital Region. Thanks to the swift actions of the FBI and the Department of Justice in a coordinated multi-state operation, several suspects were apprehended, and planned attacks were thwarted, stated FBI Director Kash Patel in a post on X.
According to reports from Fox News, five individuals were in custody as of Monday, with investigators identifying 23 others as part of a potential conspiracy.
The alleged plot included the use of drones equipped with explosives to target buildings near the event, which would have forced a mass evacuation and directed crowds toward a pre-positioned sniper team, as reported by unnamed officials.
Additionally, a second phase of the attack was reportedly intended to breach the White House gate, according to officials.
While this outcome showcases exemplary investigative efforts, it is also a standard operation for our law enforcement team, which is trained to detect, respond to, and bring to justice those who pose threats to American citizens, especially during significant events like the historic UFC 250 fight, Patel remarked.
This is precisely what we accomplished here. I extend my gratitude to our dedicated agents and partners. This investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to provide updates to the public as appropriate, the FBI Director concluded.
