The U.S. Justice Department announced a significant arrest that underscores the persistent threat posed by international terror groups seeking to undermine American democratic processes. Nasir Tawhedi, a 27-year-old Afghan national residing in Oklahoma, was apprehended on charges of conspiring to carry out an Election Day attack on behalf of ISIS. According to federal prosecutors, Tawhedi planned to use firearms to target large gatherings of people, with the intent to sow chaos and violence during a critical moment in the nation’s democratic process.
The court documents filed against Tawhedi paint a grim picture of an individual motivated by extremist ideologies. Investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) uncovered a digital trail linking Tawhedi to the global terror network, ISIS. Text messages, social media posts, and financial transactions point to his deep-seated adherence to the group’s violent agenda. Tawhedi is accused of actively preparing for an attack, including attempts to acquire weapons and ammunition, while also liquidating personal assets to ensure his family’s safety overseas.
The investigation reveals that Tawhedi, who entered the U.S. in September 2021 on a special immigrant visa, had been under scrutiny for his online activities. His Google searches were alarming, including queries such as “How to access Washington DC cameras” and “Which U.S. state does not require relations to get a firearm?” These searches were indicative of his meticulous planning to commit an act of terrorism. Through the use of confidential sources, FBI operatives were able to obtain incriminating evidence, including conversations with Tawhedi about purchasing firearms and a significant stockpile of ammunition.
ISIS, or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, has been notorious for its attempts to radicalize individuals across the globe. Tawhedi’s alleged involvement highlights the enduring reach of the group, even as it has suffered military setbacks in the Middle East. The complaint against Tawhedi details his unwavering commitment to ISIS’s objectives. He is accused of sending funds to a charity that the FBI claims acts as a front for ISIS, funneling money to support their terrorist activities.
According to the charging documents, Tawhedi had meticulously planned the Election Day attack. He allegedly sold his home for $185,000, moving his family overseas to avoid repercussions. In text messages to an alleged co-conspirator, identified as a juvenile Afghan national with legal permanent resident status, Tawhedi discussed their plan to acquire two AK-47 rifles. These firearms were intended to be used in a mass shooting, with the goal of inflicting maximum casualties. Tawhedi reportedly believed that his actions would result in martyrdom, viewing his planned attack as a sacrifice in the name of ISIS.
Federal law enforcement agents were able to preemptively stop Tawhedi’s plans before they came to fruition. The FBI used undercover informants to conduct a sham gun deal, during which Tawhedi and his co-conspirator were arrested. In the aftermath of his arrest, Tawhedi allegedly admitted to investigators that he had fully intended to carry out the Election Day attack, and that both he and his co-conspirator expected to die in the assault.
Tawhedi’s case serves as a stark reminder of the continued vigilance required to safeguard U.S. elections and protect the public from acts of domestic terrorism. ISIS and other terror organizations continue to pose a threat to national security by targeting individuals who can be radicalized within U.S. borders. The Department of Justice and FBI remain committed to dismantling such plots before they can materialize, as demonstrated in this recent case.
This is a developing story, and additional details are expected to emerge as the investigation unfolds. The arrest of Nasir Tawhedi highlights the intricate and multifaceted nature of counterterrorism operations. The FBI, working in conjunction with federal prosecutors and other law enforcement agencies, is focused on unraveling the full scope of Tawhedi’s activities and connections. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly during high-profile events like national elections.
The arrest of Nasir Tawhedi reflects the persistent threat posed by extremist ideologies within U.S. borders. As authorities continue to investigate this case, the American public is reminded of the critical importance of remaining vigilant in the face of ongoing threats to democracy and public safety.
