Two Pennsylvania men face federal charges after an ISIS-inspired attack outside Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s residence. Authorities identified the suspects as 18-year-old Emir Balat and 19-year-old Ibrahim Kayumi.
Police arrested both men Saturday outside Gracie Mansion. Investigators say they threw improvised explosive devices toward protesters.
ISIS-Inspired Attack Targets Protesters
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the ISIS-inspired attack was planned and ideologically motivated. She said the suspects acted under extremist influence.
Authorities said both men admitted links to ISIS during questioning. Kayumi reportedly watched ISIS propaganda videos before the attack.
Suspects Allegedly Pledged Support After ISIS-Inspired Attack
Investigators said Balat pledged allegiance to ISIS in writing while in custody. He also told investigators he wanted a larger attack.
Federal prosecutors announced charges Monday. The charges relate to the ISIS-inspired attack outside the mayor’s residence.
Federal Charges Filed After ISIS-Inspired Attack
Both suspects face charges for attempted material support to a terrorist organization. Prosecutors also charged them with using a weapon of mass destruction.
Additional charges include transportation and possession of explosives. Authorities also cited unlawful possession of destructive devices.
Explosive Devices Used in ISIS-Inspired Attack
Mayor Mamdani said surveillance video captured the suspects throwing two explosive devices. The devices were aimed toward protesters outside Gracie Mansion.
Investigators said the devices contained explosive materials and fragmentation. Officials warned they could have killed or seriously injured people.
Investigation Continues After ISIS-Inspired Attack
Authorities said the attack occurred during a protest outside Gracie Mansion. The event was linked to supporters of right-wing influencer Jake Lang.
Police later found another suspicious device inside a vehicle nearby. The FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force now leads the investigation.
