In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) successfully prevented a suspected coordinated terror attack planned for New Year's Eve in California. Authorities have arrested four alleged members of a far-left extremist group, averting potential bombings at multiple locations.
The Plot and the Arrests
According to official statements, the four individuals were apprehended last week while travelling to a desert area east of Los Angeles. Their stated purpose was to test improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The group, identified as the Turtle Island Liberation Front, is described as a pro-Palestinian, anti-government faction.
The suspects have been named as Audrey Illeene Carroll (30), Zachary Aaron Page (32), Dante Gaffield (24), and Tina Lai (41). They now face federal charges including conspiracy and possession of an unregistered destructive device, as per a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
Investigators revealed that the group travelled to the desert on December 12 with precursor chemicals intended for bomb-making. Their movements were tracked by a surveillance aircraft, leading to a coordinated arrest by the FBI and the Los Angeles SWAT team, which was executed without any incident.
Targets and Alleged Plans
The foiled plot reportedly involved coordinated bomb attacks at at least five locations across the region. Specific targets included two logistics centres, which were to be attacked at midnight on New Year's Eve. Furthermore, the group had allegedly discussed launching attacks against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and their vehicles in January or February.
In a chilling statement attributed to one of the suspects, Audrey Carroll allegedly said regarding the ICE plans, "That would take some of them out and scare the rest of them." This highlights the violent intent behind the alleged conspiracy.
Official Reactions and Ongoing Investigation
US Attorney General Pam Bondi took to social media platform X to announce that authorities had stopped "far-left" extremists from carrying out "a massive and horrific terror plot." The statement underscored the gravity of the threat that was neutralised.
Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell praised the inter-agency effort. He stated, "The successful disruption of this plot is a powerful testament to the strength of our unified response." He added that collaboration with allied agencies "prevented a potential tragedy and reaffirmed our shared commitment to safeguarding our communities."
The FBI has confirmed that the investigation remains active, as agents work to identify any additional suspects who may have connections to the planned attacks. The release of surveillance footage of the extremists just prior to their arrest has been part of the public disclosure following the operation.
