The FBI announced on Tuesday it had prevented a potential threat aimed at the UFC Freedom 250 event held at the White House.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the FBI, along with law enforcement partners, initiated a multi-state operation after recognizing the potential threat on June 10. Patel shared on the platform X that several individuals were in custody and that the alleged attacks were successfully stopped.
According to a Fox News Digital report, citing unnamed officials, five individuals were detained, and 23 were identified as part of a network involved in the alleged plot. The plan reportedly included using explosive-laden drones to target structures near the event and a possible attempt to breach the White House gate.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were in attendance at the event, along with other members of the Trump family. The audience also included prominent figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, UFC CEO Dana White, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Patel explained, “On June 10, the FBI and our law enforcement partners identified a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. The threat involved individuals outside the National Capital Region. Thanks to the swift actions of the FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice, multiple suspects are in custody and their alleged plans were thwarted.”
He added, “This outcome showcases the exemplary investigative work of our team. We are committed to detecting, responding to, and bringing to justice those who threaten American citizens, particularly during large gatherings like the UFC 250 fight. I extend my gratitude to our agents and partners. This work continues, and we will provide further updates as they are available.”
A spokesperson for the FBI referred inquiries to Patel’s statement and mentioned, “We have nothing additional at this time.”
The situation is developing, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.