NEWARK, N.J. – In a significant development in a federal probe targeting a suspected terrorism plot near Detroit, New Jersey authorities have charged two more young men. This investigation, which spans across state lines, now includes Tomas Jimenez-Guzel and Saed Mirreh, both aged 19.

While the charges against Jimenez-Guzel and Mirreh do not directly involve Michigan, the state where three others have already been charged, there is a notable connection. Investigators have unveiled that the duo was allegedly preparing to join the Islamic State group overseas.

Both men face charges of conspiring to provide material support to a recognized terrorist organization. Additionally, Jimenez-Guzel has been charged with attempting to provide such support, reflecting the gravity of the allegations.

The FBI apprehended Jimenez-Guzel on Tuesday at Newark’s airport, thwarting his attempt to fly to Turkey, a move authorities believe was in furtherance of his plans. Meanwhile, Mirreh was arrested in Kent, Washington, where he resides.

According to FBI court filings in Newark, the two had engaged in discussions about “comprehensive plans” to travel abroad to support the Islamic State, underscoring the seriousness of the threat they allegedly posed.

Those plans picked up speed after the Oct. 31 arrests of several people in the Detroit area with whom they had been communicating, the FBI said.

Messages seeking comment from their attorneys were not immediately returned Friday.

In Michigan, three young men have been charged with conspiracy and receiving and transferring guns and ammunition for an attack. Investigators said a group chat between the men indicated they were planning a Halloween attack with repeated references to pumpkins and pumpkin emojis.

The possible targets, according to the FBI, were LGBTQ+ bars in suburban Detroit. One man also scouted Cedar Point, an amusement park in northern Ohio. Separately, The Detroit News reported Friday that a 16-year-old boy is in federal custody as part of the investigation.