In a swift and coordinated counterterrorism operation, federal agents thwarted what officials say was a major terrorist plot targeting Michigan over Halloween weekend, resulting in multiple arrests across the Detroit metro area.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the operation early Friday, calling it a decisive win for U.S. security forces.
“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,” Patel wrote on X. “Thanks to the men and women of the FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.”
According to the New York Post, agents from the FBI’s Detroit field office executed multiple raids in the suburbs of Dearborn and Inkster, where witnesses described heavily armed agents, tactical vehicles and evidence teams moving through residential areas near Fordson High School.
Authorities confirmed that three homes were searched as part of the coordinated sweep.
“There is no current threat to public safety,” FBI spokesperson Jordan Hall stated, noting that the investigation remains ongoing.
The Dearborn Police Department issued a similar statement, reassuring residents that there was no danger to the public, according to Breitbart.
According to a senior public official cited by The Post, even Michigan’s Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was not informed before the raids began.
“When Patel posted, nobody had been briefed,” the source said, adding that details were shared only after the arrests were completed.
Officials have not disclosed how many individuals were taken into custody or what their specific target may have been.
Patel said additional information would be released once investigators were able to declassify more details.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force led the effort with support from state and local police.
The operation follows an earlier case in which a Michigan man, 19-year-old National Guardsman Ammar Said, was charged for attempting an ISIS-inspired attack on a U.S. Army installation near Detroit.
According to the Daily Mail, prosecutors replaced the initial complaint with a criminal “information” filing—a move often signaling that a guilty plea is forthcoming.
Michigan remains politically divided following its 2024 vote for President Donald Trump.
The state’s Democratic leaders, including Whitmer and the Senate majority, have repeatedly sparred with Republicans over issues ranging from policing to public safety.
Detroit—long plagued by violent crime—has drawn frequent criticism from conservatives who say Democratic policies have weakened law enforcement and emboldened criminals.
Security experts say the FBI’s timing was critical, as the alleged plot coincided with one of the busiest public holidays of the year.
“Holidays and large gatherings are historically vulnerable periods,” said a former counterterrorism adviser. “The FBI’s early intervention likely prevented a major tragedy.”
As Americans prepare for Halloween festivities, Patel’s remarks serve as both reassurance and a reminder.
“Our law enforcement officers are the reason families can celebrate safely tonight,” he said. “Their work is what keeps America secure.”
The FBI’s disruption of a possible terrorist attack in Michigan underscores the persistent threat Americans face daily.
Security officials emphasize that proactive measures, interagency coordination, and public vigilance are essential to preventing attacks, particularly during high-profile events and holidays that could be exploited by extremists.
