Two men from New Jersey have been arrested in connection with an investigation into an alleged terror plot in Michigan. According to WILX, authorities said the suspects, including a 19-year-old from Montclair, were suspected of planning an attack that may have targeted LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs.
The arrests in New Jersey took place at Newark Liberty International Airport, as detailed by Audacy. The suspects were identified as 19-year-olds Milo Sedarat of Montclair and Tomas Kaan Guzel. One was taken into custody early Wednesday morning in a food court, while the other was arrested later that morning. Both were scheduled to appear in federal court in Newark.
Federal authorities charged two Dearborn men, Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, in connection with an alleged plot referred to as “pumpkin day.” WXYZ reported that the FBI monitored their purchases of AR-15-style weapons and tactical gear and their scouting trips to Ferndale for possible targets. Investigators reviewed encrypted messages that included the statement, “I gotta do the pumpkin for real . . . if [UI] don’t do the pumpkin I’m gonna slit my wrists,” which was mentioned in the criminal complaint. The arrests took place in Michigan and later in New Jersey after the suspects reportedly changed their travel plans following metro Detroit raids.
The ongoing investigation indicates a potential link between the groups in Michigan and New Jersey, exploring a shared motivation of allegiance to ISIS. However, WILX suggested the New Jersey pair "may be charged with counts unrelated to the Detroit matter" as law enforcement continues to untangle the connections. The involvement of an NYPD undercover unit and the recovery of an arsenal including more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition point to a wide-ranging effort to thwart potential terror activities on US soil.
