FBI Announces Arrests in Alleged Southern California Bombing Plot
Federal authorities in Los Angeles have announced the disruption of a suspected New Year's Eve bombing plot. Four individuals, identified as alleged members of the Turtle Island Liberation Front, an offshoot of a pro-Palestinian anti-government group, were arrested on suspicion of planning a coordinated bombing attack at multiple locations across southern California.
Arrests and Investigation
The suspects, identified as Audrey Illeene Carroll (30), Zachary Aaron Page (32), Dante Gaffield (24), and Tina Lai (41), were apprehended last week. They face charges including conspiracy and possession of an unregistered destructive device, according to a complaint filed in the US District Court for the Central District of California.
The arrests occurred while the group was traveling to a desert area east of Los Angeles. Officials stated during a Monday media conference that the group traveled on December 12 with "precursor chemicals," allegedly intending to construct explosive devices. Surveillance footage captured their movements, leading to their arrest by the Los Angeles FBI SWAT team and FBI agents without incident.
The FBI stated its belief that the plot has been "disrupted," and an investigation to identify other potential suspects is ongoing.
Details of Alleged Plot
The alleged bombing plot reportedly involved the placement of explosive devices at two logistics centers belonging to US companies in the Los Angeles area, targeting midnight on New Year's Eve.
The complaint also indicates that the group allegedly discussed plans to attack Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and vehicles with pipe bombs in January or February. Carroll is quoted in the complaint as allegedly stating, "That would take some of them out and scare the rest of them."
Official Statements
US Attorney General Pam Bondi stated on X on Sunday that agencies prevented "far-left" extremists from executing "a massive and horrific terror plot."
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell commented on the incident, stating, "The successful disruption of this plot is a powerful testament to the strength of our unified response." He added that the collaboration among allied agencies "prevented a potential tragedy and reaffirmed our shared commitment to safeguarding our communities."