Federal authorities have successfully disrupted a significant LA Bomb Plot, arresting four suspects who allegedly planned New Year’s Eve bombings in Los Angeles. Officials announced the arrests on Monday, confirming that the suspects were taken into custody on Friday in the Mojave Desert, thwarting what could have been devastating Los Angeles bombings. This development represents a crucial step in preventing a potential terror plot, a pipe bomb plot, foiled by diligent law enforcement and a comprehensive federal investigation into the LA Bomb Plot.
Details of the LA Bomb Plot and New Year’s Eve Attacks
The suspects allegedly planned coordinated attacks using improvised explosive devices, described as complex pipe bombs. These devices were intended for multiple U.S. companies identified as logistics centers. The LA Bomb Plot was scheduled for New Year’s Eve, with the plan aiming for simultaneous explosions at midnight. Furthermore, the LA Bomb Plot included provisions for follow-up attacks targeting ICE agents and vehicles, utilizing pipe bombs. This demonstrates a sustained intent, as detailed in the criminal complaint concerning the LA Bomb Plot and the intent to carry out New Year’s Eve attacks.
Suspects and LA Bomb Plot Group Affiliation
The individuals arrested in connection with the LA Bomb Plot are Audrey Carroll, Zachary Page, Dante Gaffield, and Tina Lai, all from the Los Angeles area. The suspects allegedly belong to a radical faction known as the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF). Officials described TILF as anti-capitalist and anti-government, and this LA Bomb Plot is believed to be their work. Some reports also mention a sub-group called the Order of the Black Lotus, which advocates for “liberation through decolonization and tribal sovereignty,” potentially connected to the wider LA Bomb Plot and an anti-government plot.
Federal Investigation and Mojave Desert Arrests in the LA Bomb Plot
Authorities became aware of the LA Bomb Plot through an informant. Audrey Carroll allegedly provided a handwritten note detailing the bombing scheme. The suspects were observed testing devices in the Mojave Desert, having acquired chemicals and bomb-making materials. Law enforcement arrested the group as they were assembling explosives. Aerial surveillance footage showed the suspects moving items related to the LA Bomb Plot and the broader extremist group arrests.
Charges and Future Proceedings for the LA Bomb Plot
Each suspect faces serious charges related to the LA Bomb Plot, including conspiracy and possession of a destructive device. Additional charges are anticipated, according to federal prosecutors. The four defendants were expected to appear in federal court on Monday afternoon. A fifth individual was also arrested in New Orleans, linked to the same extremist group and an alleged separate attack plan, though not directly part of the LA Bomb Plot.
Broader Implications for Los Angeles and the LA Bomb Plot Foiled
This disruption is a critical success, preventing potential loss of life and widespread damage associated with the LA Bomb Plot. The LA Bomb Plot was uncovered just days before New Year’s Eve, a popular time for large gatherings in Los Angeles. Security measures are always heightened, and this foiled LA Bomb Plot underscores those concerns. Law enforcement agencies, including federal and local partners, collaborated extensively, emphasizing vigilance and intelligence sharing. This federal investigation into the LA Bomb Plot remains ongoing, marking a significant success in foiling the LA Bomb Plot.
