Former Michigan National Guard Member Arrested for Alleged ISIS-Related Attack Plot

A former member of the Michigan Army National Guard was taken into custody for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at a military base on behalf of the Islamic State terrorist group. The Justice Department announced the arrest on Wednesday, highlighting significant concerns regarding domestic terrorism.

Details of the Alleged Attack

Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, only 19 years old, was arrested on Tuesday after traveling to the vicinity of the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command facility, located at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Michigan. Officials reported that he “launched his drone in support of the attack plan,” indicating a disturbing level of premeditation in his actions.

Allegations of Extremism

According to a criminal complaint, Said instructed an undercover FBI agent on the need for extensive ammunition, stating, “I recommend everyone have about seven magazines because you don’t want to be in there and run out of ammo.” This statement raises serious questions about his intentions and the planning that had occurred.

Charges and Potential Consequences

Said faces serious charges for attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destructive device. If convicted, he could face a maximum of 20 years in prison for each count, underscoring the severe legal consequences associated with terrorism-related offenses.

Statements from Law Enforcement

Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, expressed grave concerns about the case, stating, “This defendant is charged with planning a deadly attack on a U.S. military base here at home for ISIS. Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement, we foiled the attack before lives were lost.” Her statement emphasizes the vigilance required to combat domestic threats and the importance of early intervention.

Involvement of Undercover Agents

The investigation reveals that in April, undercover officers posed as individuals intending to carry out Said’s plot under the guidance of ISIS. In response to their approach, Said allegedly provided substantial assistance, including armor-piercing ammunition, magazines for the attack, and operational reconnaissance using his drone. He also trained undercover agents in firearms handling and even the construction of Molotov cocktails.

Communications and Intent

According to the criminal complaint, around June, Said began communicating with an undercover FBI agent who he believed was another supporter of ISIS. Their interactions, which were recorded, included discussions about Said’s desire to engage in violent jihad either abroad or by executing an attack domestically. This reveals a concerning mindset that can be shared by others who might sympathize with extremist ideologies.

Recent Evidence Collected

FBI agents executed a search warrant for Said’s iPhone, a device he provided to personnel with the Michigan Army National Guard before boarding a military aircraft. The search led to the discovery of a Facebook message exchange in Arabic, dating back to October 2023. In those communications, Said expressed his desire to go for jihad, and the other individual encouraged him to chat on Telegram.

Membership in Extremist Groups

Agents found evidence that Said actively participated in multiple channels on the encrypted messaging platform Telegram. Some of these channels contained content featuring ISIS flags and propaganda, raising concerns about his online activities and affiliations. This aspect of the investigation highlights the role of digital communications in facilitating modern extremism.

Background of the Accused

Said enlisted in the Michigan Army National Guard in September 2022, completing basic training at Fort Moore in Georgia. His military career took a sharp turn when he was discharged around December 2024. The rapid timeline of events raises questions about his motivations and the influences that led him toward extremist ideologies.

Ongoing Investigation

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is spearheading the investigation. Authorities are taking this incident seriously, as it underscores ongoing threats from homegrown terrorism. The presence of individuals with military training engaging in extremist conduct poses a unique challenge to national security.

Final Thoughts on National Security

The arrest of Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said serves as a stark reminder of the potential threats faced by domestic security agencies. The proactive measures taken by law enforcement demonstrate the critical importance of vigilance in preventing such plots before they can manifest into tragic realities. As investigations continue, it will be imperative to address the ideological and recruitment methods that underpin such extreme behaviors within communities.