The FBI has disrupted an alleged threat targeting President Trump's UFC event at the White House, with multiple suspects now in custody, FBI Director Kash Patel announced Tuesday.
Federal officials became aware of a potential threat from individuals outside the Washington, D.C. area on June 10, according to Patel. In a statement, he said that "thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold."
The disrupted plot represents the latest security concern for Trump, who has faced multiple attempts on his life during his presidency. Recent incidents include a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner. Law enforcement agencies across the country are managing what officials describe as an elevated period of political violence.
Patel did not immediately disclose details about the nature of the alleged threat or provide the identities of those taken into custody. He indicated that additional information about the plot would be released once charges are unsealed.
The UFC event took place on the White House south lawn over the weekend, coinciding with Trump's 80th birthday celebration. The event, called UFC Freedom 250, featured a title fight between lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and interim champion Justin Gaethje. The White House had billed it as a historic national celebration, with 4,000 ticketed guests and a fan festival on the Ellipse expected to draw up to 100,000 people.
Sources reported that the alleged threat involved a potential drone attack, though official confirmation of the threat's specific nature remained limited.
The event drew significant attention not only for its security implications but also for statements made by a UFC fighter at the event who made disparaging comments about former first lady Michelle Obama while standing near the president. The incident drew widespread condemnation and raised questions about event protocols.
The FBI's counterterrorism and protective intelligence divisions have intensified monitoring of potential threats against government officials and public events in recent months. Federal law enforcement has increased coordination with state and local agencies to identify and investigate individuals who may pose security risks to high-profile political figures and gatherings.
Meanwhile, UFC president Dana White indicated that another White House fight night may not happen again, citing weather concerns, logistical challenges with constructing the cage and staging events at federal landmarks, and soaring costs that made the event a one-time affair.
The White House has not commented on whether security protocols for future events will be adjusted following the disrupted threat.