Kent, Washington — A 19-year-old has been charged in connection with an alleged foiled Halloween terrorist plot targeting LGBTQ+ bars in Detroit, Michigan. Saed Ali Mirreh was taken into custody as part of a broader investigation that led to multiple arrests, according to documents filed with the U.S. District Court of New Jersey.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that Mirreh was the sixth individual apprehended in relation to the planned attack, which authorities believe was inspired by the Islamic State. The FBI reported that Mirreh was arrested at his home, while another co-conspirator was detained at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Investigators allege that the group used encrypted messaging applications to communicate their plans for an attack and had intentions to travel from the United States to Turkey, with the goal of crossing into Syria to join ISIS. Notably, Mirreh reportedly purchased a ticket for a flight from Seattle to Istanbul set for November.
Mirreh has been described as the group’s “finance guy,” accused of raising funds for travel through various online scams. The investigation first identified Mirreh last year when he was found discussing potential ISIS-related attacks online targeting both the U.S. and Canada. Although he acknowledged sharing extremist content, he did not confess to intentions of committing violence at that time.
In a twist, authorities noted that Mirreh resumed contact with ISIS supporters in 2025, actively posting extremist materials. He was reportedly communicating with at least three international ISIS affiliates on Instagram, where he discussed “jihad” and shared weapons-related content, including videos of himself in tactical gear.
Mirreh has been charged with conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison.
The FBI offices in both Seattle and Newark released statements applauding the collaborative efforts that led to the prevention of the suspected attack. Special Agent in Charge W. Mike Herrington emphasized the dedication of agents nationwide who played significant roles in thwarting the plot and safeguarding communities.
Earlier in the investigation, two additional suspects, Ayob Nasser and his brother Mohmed Ali, alongside a third man named Majed Mahmoud, were also charged. They face serious accusations of providing material support to a terrorist organization and handling firearms intended for terrorism, court documents disclose.
This operation showcases ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt extremist plots and protect public safety. The investigation remains active, reflecting a continued vigilance in counter-terrorism efforts domestically.