The FBI on Tuesday revealed a plot to target the weekend’s UFC America 250 event at the White House, saying multiple suspects were in custody after a multi-state operation.FBI Director Kash Patel said authorities became aware of the potential threat on June 10, four days before the mixed martial arts event in Washington, D.C. He said the threats involved individuals outside the National Capital Region. He said the investigation was ongoing and praised federal and local law enforcement agencies for thwarting what he said was a planned attack ahead of an event attended by President Donald Trump.“On June 10, the FBI and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C., involving individuals outside the National Capital Region, and due to the swift actions of the FBI, our partners and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and an allegedly planned attack was thwarted,” he said.“While the results represent the best investigative work, it is nothing out of the ordinary for this law enforcement team – our purpose is to identify, respond to, and bring to justice those who threaten the lives of American citizens – especially during large gatherings such as the historic UFC 250 event. That is exactly what we do here. I want to thank our great agents and partners, this work is still ongoing, and we will continue to update the public as allowed,” he added.Five people were arrested in states including Ohio, Missouri and California, the Associated Press reported, citing law enforcement officials. The nature of the alleged conspiracy was not immediately disclosed, with more details expected to be released once the charges are unsealed.U.S. Secret Service Director Sean Curran said the agency is working closely with law enforcement partners to identify those responsible and hold them accountable.
