The FBI says it has disrupted an alleged plot to attack a UFC event held at the White House, leading to the arrest of five men across four states.
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According to the US Department of Justice, the suspects planned to use explosive-laden drones and sniper teams to target attendees at Sunday's event on the White House South Lawn. Prosecutors allege the operation was designed to create panic among spectators before launching further attacks.
The suspects were identified as Tycen Proper, Bryan Roa, Michael Thomas, Daniel Eskridge and Abraham Alvarez. Authorities arrested them in Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska and California.
Alleged Multi-Stage Attack Plan
Court documents state that the group intended to fly drones into nearby buildings, triggering chaos and driving crowds toward positions where snipers would open fire on what they described as "high-value targets".
Prosecutors further allege that a second group of attackers planned to advance on the White House gates.
The event drew around 4,300 invited guests, while an estimated 85,000 people watched from a nearby fan zone. Fourteen mixed martial arts fighters competed in a series of bouts as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Investigation Began With Family Warning
Investigators say the case came to light after Proper's mother contacted local authorities on 10 June, expressing concern about her son's firearms purchases and online communications.
Prosecutors said Proper, 19, had been interacting with an online group that expressed anti-government and religious extremist views.
During an FBI interview on 11 June, Proper allegedly admitted involvement in planning the attack. Authorities say members of the group first communicated through a TikTok chat called "Vanguard of the Old" before moving some discussions to the encrypted messaging app Signal.
Motives Detailed in Court Documents
According to court filings, participants discussed launching a revolution by attacking wealthy individuals and politicians attending the event.
Prosecutors said conversations included grievances about government corruption, the handling of the Epstein files, data centres and other government policies.
Proper has been charged with conspiracy to commit an offence against the United States and attempted murder of a federal officer. His lawyer has not publicly commented.
Officials Cite Growing Security Concerns
FBI Director Kash Patel said the alleged attack plans had been stopped through a multi-state operation.
Secret Service Deputy Director Matt Quinn later described the case as a serious threat but declined to discuss details while the investigation remains active.
Asked about the alleged plot during the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump said he had not been briefed on the matter. Vice-President JD Vance told Fox News that the public was being informed because of the scale of the alleged plan.
The arrests come amid growing concern over political violence in the United States. Researchers have reported a rise in targeted political attacks in recent years, while experts warn that such incidents can contribute to further cycles of violence.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 17 June 2026