FBI arrests 5 in alleged plot to attack White House UFC event with explosives-laden drones and guns

The FBI foiled a plot to attack Sunday’s UFC fight at the White House, Director Kash Patel said on X.

WASHINGTON — Law enforcement officials disrupted a plot to attack the Ultimate Fighting Championship event at the White House over the weekend, according to court papers unsealed Tuesday that say the conspirators discussed flying drones loaded with explosives over the event and then shooting into the fleeing crowd.

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Five people have been arrested across the country and charged with conspiracy to commit murder, among other counts. Investigators recovered firearms, ammunition and encrypted text messages of 19 people suspected to have taken part, who shared maps and photos of the area and who talked about the need for escape routes after the attack, according to court documents.

The investigation is ongoing.