Former Guardsman arrested for plotting an ISIS attack on military base

In the United States, a former member of the Michigan Army National Guard was arrested for attempting to execute a mass attack inspired by ISIS at a military facility. The individual, Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, who is 19 years old and from Melvindale, was taken into custody after he engaged in extensive planning to carry out a shooting at the U.S. Army's Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) facility in Warren, Michigan. Authorities stated that Said coordinated an attack that was scheduled for the morning of his arrest, which was facilitated through interactions with undercover law enforcement agents disguised as ISIS supporters. The planning for the attack began in late 2024, when Said, having enlisted in the Michigan Army National Guard in September 2022, began providing detailed plans to the undercover officers. These plans included distributing armor-piercing ammunition and high-capacity magazines and training the officers on the use of firearms and explosive devices, like Molotov cocktails. Additionally, he flew a drone over the TACOM facility for reconnaissance purposes and provided operational guidance to maximize casualties, identifying specific targets within the facility. Said's arrest took place near the base just moments after he launched the drone to aid in his attack strategy. He has since been charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destructive device. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison for each charge. The U.S. Attorney's Office and other law enforcement officials emphasized the seriousness of the threat posed by Said’s actions, declaring a strong commitment to countering terrorism and protecting the community. This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with domestic terrorism and extremism within the United States. As an ex-guard member, Said’s actions underline the complexities of combating radicalization, particularly amongst individuals who have undergone military training, making the prevention of such events crucial to ensuring national security.