Afghan teen admits to plotting terrorist attack on US Election Day
An Afghan teen in the U.S.
admitted to planning a terrorist attack on Election Day, prompting serious federal security investigations. Abdullah Haji-Zada, an 18-year-old Afghan with permanent U.S. residency, has confessed to receiving weapons and ammunition for a planned terrorist attack on U.S. election day. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed the confession on Thursday, April 17.
According to court documents, Haji-Zada and another Afghan citizen, Nasir Ahmad Toohidi, 27, had planned a terrorist attack in Oklahoma.
They had obtained two AK-47 rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition, intending to carry out the attack in support of ISIS during the November 2024 elections. Haji-Zada was arrested in October 2024 alongside Toohidi. Under a plea agreement, Haji-Zada faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Upon completion of his sentence, he will be deported and will lose his permanent residency and asylum eligibility. Toohidi, still in custody, faces charges of material support for ISIS and weapons-related offenses. If convicted, he could receive up to 20 years in prison for each charge. Su Bai, the head of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division, stated that the confession shows the U.S. commitment to countering terrorist threats and holding perpetrators accountable.
The investigation was led by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Oklahoma, with support from federal and local agencies. This collaboration underscores the importance of joint efforts in tackling domestic terrorism. The arrest and confession highlight a concerning trend of radicalization within the U.S. by foreign nationals.
Authorities are increasingly vigilant in preventing potential attacks, especially during high-profile events such as national elections.
This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats posed by terrorist organizations and the importance of effective counterterrorism strategies.
The swift response from law enforcement authorities underscores their commitment to national security.
Source: www.khaama.com
