A teenager from Philadelphia is facing charges for allegedly planning a potentially dangerous terrorist attack.
Federal authorities uncovered his alleged communication with a terror group affiliated with al-Qaeda and his acquisition of materials for making bombs.
On August 11, FBI SWAT officers apprehended the 17-year-old at his West Philadelphia residence after a Joint Terrorism Task Force investigation.
This teenager, whose identity remains undisclosed due to his juvenile status, is believed to have been in contact with Katibat al Tawhid wal Jihad, an organization known as a global terrorist group by the State Department in 2022.
The group, connected to al Qaeda, mainly operates in Syria's Idlib Province and is linked to significant attacks in various countries, including Russia and Kyrgyzstan.
The young suspect allegedly received guidance from the terror group on creating improvised explosive devices.
FBI agents observed him purchasing bomb-making materials and tactical gear before his arrest.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner stated that the FBI's work potentially prevented a serious terrorist attack.
The suspect is facing charges such as weapons of mass destruction, criminal conspiracy, arson, causing/risking catastrophe, attempt to commit criminal mischief, possession of an instrument of crime, and recklessly endangering another person.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Jacqueline Maguire highlighted that the teenager appeared to be preparing to travel overseas to join or support terrorist activities.
The evidence suggested his access to firearms and materials for creating improvised explosive devices.
In recent weeks, the suspect had reportedly been seen purchasing tactical equipment, chemicals, wiring, and devices that could be used for remote detonations.
Customs and Border Protection records confirmed the receipt of military and tactical gear shipments at the juvenile's address.
Authorities are concerned about the radicalization of teenagers by terror groups through online messaging.
In a different news, a murder suspect is now facing extra charges for attempting to erase forensic evidence that linked her to the crime, by pouring soda on herself. Find the complete story here.
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