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In a significant development first reported by Fox, federal authorities announced they have thwarted a serious terrorist threat, apprehending four individuals linked to a radical pro-Palestinian extremist faction. The arrests, which took place over the weekend, involved suspects accused of plotting to carry out synchronized bombings in Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve.
The FBI revealed to Fox News Digital that these individuals identified themselves as members of a radical branch of the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF). This group is known for its extremist stance, driven by pro-Palestinian sentiments and a vehement opposition to law enforcement and government authorities.
The FBI stated that the suspects had been devising a plan to execute simultaneous bombing attacks using homemade explosive devices. Their targets were reportedly five distinct locations throughout Los Angeles, all set for New Year’s Eve.
Authorities captured the four suspects in Lucerne Valley, where they allegedly intended to test their explosive devices ahead of the planned assaults. The charges they face include conspiracy and the possession of destructive devices.
In related regional news, a break in the weather provided a clear view along Avalon Boulevard in South Los Angeles on November 9, 2022, following a record-breaking storm that had recently passed through the area. (Photo by Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
The FBI said Monday that a fifth individual believed to be connected to the same TILF extremist group was arrested in New Orleans for allegedly planning a separate attack.
A TILF Instagram account said its founding chapter is in Los Angeles, and its goal is to free “Turtle Island,” an Indigenous name used to refer to North America, from the “illegal American empire.”Â
“Free Palestine. Free Hawaii. Free Puerto Rico,” the account posted. “Freeing the world from American imperialism is the only way to a safe and peaceful future,” it continued.
Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X that the Department of Justice worked with the FBI to prevent the alleged terror plot in the Central District of California.
She said TILF was also planning to target United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and vehicles.
The J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building, home to the FBI headquarters, is seen on June 9, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
“This was an incredible effort by our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the FBI to ensure Americans can live in peace,” Bondi wrote. “We will continue to pursue these terror groups and bring them to justice.”