Oklahoma Man Charged Over ISIS Election Day Terror Plot
The U.S. Department of Justice has charged Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, a 27-year-old Afghan national living in Oklahoma City, with plotting a terrorist attack on Election Day on behalf of ISIS.
Plot to Target Election Day Festivities
Tawhedi is accused of conspiring to carry out a violent attack on U.S. soil and providing material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated terrorist group. Authorities allege he bought firearms and ammunition specifically to execute this plan.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland slammed the plot, saying, “The Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plan to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on Election Day.” He reaffirmed the department’s dedication to fighting ISIS threats at home.
FBI Busts Plot Before Any Harm Done
FBI Director Christopher Wray praised his agents for nabbing Tawhedi before any attack could happen. Wray said terrorism remains the bureau’s top priority.
The investigation uncovered that Tawhedi communicated with ISIS affiliates, consumed ISIS propaganda, and took part in pro-ISIS Telegram groups. He also reportedly donated to a charity suspected of funneling money to ISIS.
Arrest Details and Pending Charges
- On October 7, Tawhedi and a juvenile accomplice were arrested after purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from FBI operatives.
- Before the attack, Tawhedi liquidated family assets to fund his plot.
- In a post-arrest interview, he admitted the plan was aimed at large Election Day crowds.
Tawhedi faces charges including conspiracy to support ISIS, which can bring up to 20 years in prison, and possession of firearms for use in a federal terrorism crime, carrying up to 15 years behind bars.
