FBI foils alleged drone attack plot targeting White House UFC event, says report

The FBI and its law enforcement partners have disrupted an alleged plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event held at the White House, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects and the launch of a wide-ranging investigation across several states.

According to a report by Fox News, five people were in custody as of Monday, while investigators identified at least 23 individuals believed to be part of a broader network linked to the alleged plan.

According to the report, authorities believe the suspects intended to use explosive-laden drones to strike buildings near the event, trigger panic among attendees and direct fleeing crowds toward a pre-positioned sniper team.

Officials also alleged that a second phase of the operation involved an attempt to storm the White House gates amid the resulting chaos.

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Investigation began earlier this month

According to the report, the FBI first became aware of the threat on June 10. Working with federal, state and local agencies, authorities developed probable cause and arrested one suspect in Cincinnati.

The investigation later expanded after officials examined digital communications allegedly linked to the suspects. According to the report, Signal chat groups contained discussions about attacking the UFC event and included conversations related to planning and logistics.

A review of one suspect's mobile phone reportedly identified at least 23 Signal users involved in discussions concerning pre-operational activities.

Investigators also said that one suspect claimed the intended targets included wealthy individuals, political figures and others viewed as representatives of what they described as elite interests.

Multi-state operation

The case ultimately involved at least 12 FBI field offices across the United States, highlighting the scale of the investigation, the report said.

FBI Director Kash Patel praised the coordinated effort by the FBI, the Department of Justice and other law enforcement agencies.

In remarks reported by Fox News, Patel said the swift action of investigators helped prevent the alleged attacks before they could be carried out.

He added that responding to threats against large public gatherings remains a core responsibility of federal law enforcement and described the operation as an example of agencies working together to protect public safety.

Event drew thousands

The alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, a high-profile event held on the South Lawn of the White House as part of celebrations surrounding President Donald Trump's 80th birthday weekend.

The event attracted approximately 4,300 attendees, including around 1,200 active-duty military personnel. Fighters from several countries participated in matches held inside a specially constructed arena on the White House grounds.

The alleged conspiracy comes amid heightened concerns over political violence and security threats targeting public officials and major events in the United States.

Authorities said that the investigation remains ongoing and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.