Los Angeles authorities, in coordination with federal investigators, arrested four individuals tied to a radical left-wing group after uncovering plans for coordinated bombings across Southern California on New Year’s Eve.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the arrests as preventing a “credible and imminent threat” to public safety, emphasizing the ongoing domestic terror risk posed by extremist networks.
The suspects—Audrey Carroll, 30; Zachary Aaron Page, 32; Dante Gaffield, 24 and Tina Lai, 41—were apprehended in the Mojave Desert while assembling explosive devices, according to KTLA 5.
Law enforcement reported on Monday that the group had planned to detonate improvised bombs simultaneously at multiple locations, including commercial centers and government sites.
Officials said the operation was stopped before the devices could be deployed, averting what could have been a catastrophic attack.
Federal authorities identified the organization as the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF), a small extremist network with anti-government, anti-capitalist and pro-Palestinian views.
Carroll allegedly led a radical offshoot called the “Order of the Black Lotus,” coordinating the plot, recruiting participants, and procuring bomb-making materials.
According to CBS News, investigators reportedly recovered written instructions detailing the construction and deployment of explosives from the suspects’ residences.
Officials noted the group had also discussed additional attacks targeting federal immigration personnel and vehicles.
A fifth individual, arrested in New Orleans, is linked to the group but not directly tied to the California plot, preventing another potential threat.
The Daily Caller reports that coordinated search warrants in Louisiana and Massachusetts were executed to collect evidence and identify other potential participants.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured the suspects testing explosive components in a remote desert location before FBI and SWAT teams conducted arrests without incident.
The FBI said the suspects had brought chemicals and materials to the site and began assembling devices under a tent before authorities intervened.
Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the operation as a major counterterrorism achievement, highlighting the federal effort to disrupt extremist plots.
“This was an incredible effort by our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the @FBI to ensure Americans can live in peace,” Bondi wrote on X.
According to TILF’s social media accounts, the group advocates “liberation through decolonization and tribal sovereignty” and supports Palestinian causes.
Authorities noted the group’s radical ideology provides insight into motivations and potential for escalation if left unchecked. Investigators are urging the public to report any information related to the group or potential threats.
Meanwhile, law enforcement continues reviewing evidence, conducting interviews and monitoring extremist networks to prevent further attacks.
Authorities emphasized the need for community vigilance during holidays and other high-profile events.
Disrupting this plot averted potential loss of life and safeguarded critical infrastructure across Southern California.
Officials said the arrests highlight the FBI’s preventive role against domestic terrorism and the evolving threat landscape.
The case underscores the importance of coordinated federal, state, and local efforts in countering extremist violence. Authorities reaffirmed that they will pursue any individuals connected to the group to ensure accountability.
The investigation, named “Operation Verdant Force,” remains active as additional charges are expected in the coming weeks.
Officials called the rapid intervention critical in protecting public safety and preventing mass casualties.
Community leaders praised law enforcement for acting decisively against a serious domestic terror threat. FBI and DOJ officials said this case serves as a warning to other extremist networks planning coordinated attacks.
Authorities continue to monitor extremist groups across the country to prevent similar plots in the future.
