ISIS-Inspired Attack of Warren Michigan’s TACOM Thwarted by FBI Counterterrorism Task Force
Federal agents arrest 19-year-old ex-National Guard member accused of plotting assault on Warren military facility. Authorities say a Michigan man plotted a mass-shooting for ISIS, targeting a U.S. Army base in Warren before federal agents intervened.
ISIS Terror Plot in Michigan Sparks Federal Response
A former member of the Michigan Army National Guard, Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, of Melvindale, was arrested Tuesday after allegedly plotting a mass-shooting at a U.S. military base in Warren. The case, federal officials say, marks a disturbing attempt to support a designated foreign terrorist group — the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) — from inside U.S. borders.
The planned target was TACOM, the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command located at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, a major military logistics and research center in Southeast Michigan.
Drone Surveillance, Ammunition, and Firearm Training Cited
According to the federal complaint, Said allegedly provided armor-piercing ammunition, firearm training, and conducted drone reconnaissance of the base. He also coached two undercover law enforcement officers — whom he believed were ISIS operatives — on how to use Molotov cocktails and plan the attack.
The Justice Department reports that on May 13, Said traveled to the Warren area and launched a drone in support of what he believed would be an imminent assault. He was arrested before reaching the base perimeter.
Officials say the materials and guidance provided by Said were crucial in simulating a real threat scenario. His actions included mapping building access points and prioritizing targets within TACOM’s operational campus.
Federal Officials Emphasize Vigilance Against Domestic Terrorism
“This defendant is charged with planning a deadly attack on a U.S. military base here at home for ISIS,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement, we foiled the attack before lives were lost.”
U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr., representing the Eastern District of Michigan, stated, “Helping ISIS or any other terrorist organization prepare or carry out acts of violence is not only a reprehensible crime — it is a threat to our entire nation and way of life.”
FBI Counterterrorism Division Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead added, “The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to detect and stop terrorist plans aimed at the American homeland.”
Military Officials Warn of Insider Threats in Uniform
The suspect’s military background is drawing concern within the Department of Defense. Brig. Gen. Rhett R. Cox, commander of the Army Counterintelligence Command, called the incident “a sobering reminder” of the dangers posed by insider threats.
“I commend the tireless work of our special agents and FBI partners who worked together to investigate and apprehend this individual,” Cox said. “We urge all soldiers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”
Said Faces Two Federal Terrorism Charges
If convicted, Said could serve up to 20 years in federal prison for each charge. His initial court appearance is scheduled in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, where prosecutors are expected to seek pretrial detention based on risk of flight and public danger.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation, and prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Salzenstein and National Security Division Trial Attorneys John Cella and Charles Kovats.
The Justice Department emphasized that the charges remain allegations and that Said is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Related Context: ISIS Recruiting, Military Base Security
While ISIS has lost physical territory in the Middle East, U.S. counterterrorism officials warn the group continues to inspire attacks through online radicalization. Michigan, home to a number of key military and logistics sites, has not been immune to recruitment or plot attempts, according to past FBI field reports.
In 2020, the FBI reported a rise in domestic terrorism investigations involving military targets and social media propaganda. Experts say this case highlights a troubling intersection of radicalization and insider access.
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