An Afghan national has been arrested in Oklahoma for allegedly planning a terrorist attack during the upcoming US elections. The FBI's intervention comes in response to a recent international report detailing the suspect's activities.
Federal prosecutor officials have identified the individual as Nasir Ahmad Tohidi, who is believed to be coordinating a plot in support of ISIS aimed at disrupting the electoral process. Tohidi's nephew and several unidentified accomplices are reportedly also involved in the conspiracy, all of whom are alleged ISIS operatives actively working to execute their plans within the United States.
According to investigators, Tohidi and his nephew sold their family home to finance the purchase of weapons and ammunition specifically targeted for the elections. Notably, Tohidi had previously donated $540 in cryptocurrency to an ISIS-affiliated organisation based in Syria. On September 21, he allegedly contacted a friend via Telegram to arrange the procurement of two Kalashnikov rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition.
Telegram records indicate that Tohidi sold his father-in-law's house for $185,000 to fund preparations for the election attack. During interviews post-arrest, Tohidi reportedly confessed to acquiring weapons for a planned assault on election day, aiming to target large public gatherings where he anticipated martyrdom.
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasised the ongoing threat to national security posed by ISIS and its supporters, stating, "We will continue to combat the ongoing threats to the United States posed by ISIS and its affiliates, and we will hold accountable those who attempt to terrorise the American people."
The situation highlights a troubling trend, as Afghanistan has increasingly become a safe haven for terrorists, not only in the region but also on the international stage. Afghan nationals have been implicated in various terrorist activities across multiple countries, including Pakistan.
