FBI Foils Alleged Drone Attack Plot Targeting UFC Event at White House, Says Kash Patel

Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel claimed that authorities successfully foiled an alleged plot to attack Sunday’s UFC event held at the White House using explosive drones.

The alleged target was “UFC Freedom 250,” a high-profile event organised on the South Lawn of the White House as part of Donald Trump’s 80th birthday celebrations.

The event reportedly attracted around 4,300 attendees, including military personnel, officials, and guests.

FBI Says Multiple Suspects Arrested

In a statement shared on X, Kash Patel said the FBI became aware of a potential threat on June 10 and immediately coordinated a multi-state operation with law enforcement agencies and the Department of Justice.

According to Patel, several individuals are now in custody and the alleged attack plans were “stopped cold” before they could be executed.

Investigators Identify Larger Network

Officials said five people were in custody as of Monday, while investigators identified at least 23 individuals allegedly connected to a broader network linked to the plot.

Authorities described the alleged threat as serious and said investigations are continuing across multiple states.

The operation reportedly involved assistance from 12 FBI field offices.

Alleged Plan Involved Explosive Drones

According to investigators, the alleged attack plan involved using drones carrying explosives to strike buildings near the White House event.

Officials claimed the suspected attackers intended to trigger panic and force crowds into evacuation routes where additional armed attackers were allegedly positioned.

Authorities also alleged that a second phase of the operation involved plans to breach White House security barriers.

Signal Chats and Digital Evidence Recovered

Investigators reportedly uncovered encrypted group chats on Signal where suspects allegedly discussed operational planning and preparations for the attack.

A review of one suspect’s phone allegedly revealed conversations involving more than 20 users discussing logistics, travel arrangements, and pre-operational activity.

Some suspects were reportedly planning to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, days before the event.

Motive Allegedly Linked to Anti-Elite Extremism

According to reports, one suspect allegedly told investigators the group intended to target “capitalist elites,” billionaires, and political figures connected to pro-Israel lobbying groups.

Authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the identities of all suspects involved in the case.

Security Concerns Continue to Rise

The alleged plot comes amid growing concerns in the United States regarding political violence, threats against public officials, and extremist activity targeting major national events.

Kash Patel praised FBI agents and law enforcement partners for rapidly responding to the alleged threat and preventing what officials described as a potentially dangerous attack.