The FBI successfully prevented a potential terror attack on the Mall of America in Minnesota after a nearly two-year investigation into an 18-year-old American-born citizen of Somali descent, Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud. According to authorities, Mohamud had been in contact with a confidential informant since December 2024, expressing initial interest in traveling to Somalia to join al-Shabab militants.
As the investigation progressed, Mohamud's plans shifted to attacking the Mall of America. He intended to carry out the attack on October 24, coinciding with a scheduled arts celebration by the Hmong community. In chat messages, Mohamud stated his intention to kill "maybe 30 to 60 people." The FBI supplied him with an AK-47 and ammunition, leading to his arrest in a public park in Richfield.
Mohamud appeared in federal court in St. Paul for his initial appearance, where he was represented by federal public defender Siri Carlson McDowell. Court documents revealed that Mohamud did not have a job, own a house or car, or have any money in the bank. His mother and relatives declined to comment after the hearing.
US Attorney Daniel Rosen emphasized the importance of heeding warnings from federal law enforcement regarding radicalization. Rosen stated that the FBI detected and disrupted the threat before Mohamud could carry out his plans. The investigation involved monitoring Mohamud's online activities and interactions with the confidential informant.
The FBI first became aware of Mohamud in December 2024, when he began exchanging messages with the informant. By May 2025, agents were concerned enough to visit his home, but his father declined to speak with them. Rosen highlighted the significance of parental awareness in such situations, urging parents to take action if they suspect their child is being radicalized.
Minnesota has a large population of people of Somali descent, with many refugees arriving in the 1990s. Over the years, several individuals have been charged with attempting to join militant groups. The state's authorities remain vigilant in addressing potential security threats.
The FBI's successful operation demonstrates the importance of proactive measures in preventing terrorist attacks. Mohamud's case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and security. Authorities continue to work to prevent similar threats from materializing in the future.
Key points
- The FBI thwarted a planned terror attack on the Mall of America by an 18-year-old US citizen of Somali descent.
- The suspect, Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, was arrested after purchasing an AK-47 and ammunition from an undercover FBI agent.
- The investigation involved monitoring Mohamud's online activities and interactions with a confidential informant over nearly two years.
