Detroit, MI — The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced Friday that it has successfully averted a potential ISIS-inspired terrorist attack targeting Halloween weekend festivities in Michigan. Multiple suspects have been taken into custody following a coordinated overnight operation led by the FBI’s Detroit Field Office, with assistance from state and local law enforcement.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the arrests in a post on X, stating:
“This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come.”
Online Radicalization and Coordinated Surveillance
According to law enforcement sources cited by CNN, the group had been communicating for months through encrypted online chatrooms, discussing plans for an ISIS-inspired attack. The individuals allegedly connected with others overseas believed to have ties to ISIS.
An FBI undercover operative was inserted into the chat group early in the investigation, allowing agents to monitor the suspects’ communications and intentions.
“This all relates to an investigation that started months ago into people who were communicating online with each other here in the United States … but also talking to people overseas, possibly connected to ISIS,” said John Miller, CNN’s Chief Law Enforcement and Intelligence Analyst.
‘Pumpkin Day’ Code Sparks Action
Authorities say the suspects’ plans accelerated this week after they visited a Michigan shooting range with AK-47 rifles and other weapons, where they practiced high-speed reloads and tactical drills.
During these sessions, investigators intercepted a reference to “pumpkin day” — believed to be a coded term for Halloween weekend — prompting the FBI to act swiftly to prevent a potential mass-casualty event.
The FBI executed search warrants and subpoenas overnight for phones, computers, and other materials linked to the suspects. Two participants were arrested, and at least three others are currently being questioned.
Michigan Authorities Reassure Public
In a statement, the FBI’s Detroit Field Office confirmed that operations took place in Dearborn and Inkster, Michigan, early Friday morning.
“There is no current threat to public safety,” said FBI spokesperson Jordan Hall.
The Dearborn Police Department also issued a community assurance statement, confirming FBI activity in the area but emphasizing that residents are not in danger:
“We want to assure our residents that there is no threat to the community at this time.”
Officials Praise Law Enforcement Response
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed gratitude to federal and state authorities for their rapid response.
“This morning, I was briefed by Director Patel on the thwarted potential terrorist attack in our state,” Whitmer said on X. “As details continue to develop, I am grateful for the swift action of the FBI and Michigan State Police protecting Michiganders.”
The investigation remains active as agents continue to examine evidence and determine the full extent of the group’s coordination and possible foreign connections.