Michigan Residents Charged in Alleged Terrorism Scheme
Two Michigan men were arrested Friday on allegations they conspired to carry out a Halloween attack inspired by ISIS, according to unsealed federal court documents.
The suspects, identified as Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, are both U.S. citizens residing in Michigan, and were taken into custody after a long-running investigation involving the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Codeword “Pumpkin Day” Allegedly Used to Mask Plot
According to federal investigators, the suspects allegedly referred to their planned attack using the phrase “pumpkin day.” This codeword reportedly appeared in several encrypted communications exchanged between group members.
Authorities say the two men acquired firearms and tactical gear in preparation for the act, including:
- An AR-15-style rifle
- A shotgun
- A forced reset trigger device, designed to increase a semiautomatic weapon’s firing rate
Weapons, Ammunition, and Tactical Gear Seized
FBI agents searching residences in Dearborn, Michigan, on October 31, 2025, discovered a cache of weapons and ammunition:
- Multiple AR-15-style rifles
- Shotguns and handguns
- Tactical vests
- Over 1,600 rounds of compatible ammunition
Alleged Training and Coordination Across Michigan
The suspects, along with three unnamed co-conspirators, are alleged to have trained with firearms at multiple shooting ranges across the state. Investigators say they also practiced at remote outdoor locations and shared extremist content via encrypted apps and social media platforms.
Inspiration from Past Attacks Abroad and at Home
The complaint notes that the suspects reportedly discussed other terrorist attacks, including:
- The 2015 Paris attacks carried out by ISIS
- The 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Florida
At one point, the group considered traveling overseas to join ISIS, but later allegedly decided to act domestically instead.
Phone Search in 2024 Sparks Investigation
Authorities say the investigation began after a 2024 Customs and Border Protection phone search revealed ISIS-related material and images of one co-conspirator in military-style clothing. That co-conspirator had been traveling abroad, prompting the FBI to monitor communications between him and the other individuals.
Timeline of Alleged Plot Development
According to the timeline laid out in the court documents:
- October 17: Ali allegedly hinted at a new plan and encouraged an associate to “learn how to shoot.”
- October 18: He allegedly planned a meeting to advance their operation.
- October 19: Internal disagreement surfaced, but Ali insisted the operation was moving forward.
- October 24: A co-conspirator reportedly confirmed the plan by saying, “We are going to do pumpkin.”
FBI Praised for Preventing Attack
Attorney General Pam Bondi credited the FBI for disrupting the planned attack and preventing potential harm to the public. The investigation remains ongoing, with additional charges or arrests possible.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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