An 18-year-old from Minnesota, Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, was arrested after he allegedly expressed allegiance to ISIS and talked about planning a mass shooting at the Mall of America. This followed his purchase of an AK-47-style rifle, magazines, and ammunition from an undercover FBI operative, as per newly released federal court documents.
For months, Mohamud reportedly conveyed his intentions to launch an attack, telling an FBI informant in September, “I can’t wait until I kill kuffar man. October 24 is the day insha Allah.” An affidavit filed in federal court in Minnesota highlighted that when asked about the significance of that date, he mentioned a “Hmong Arts Celebration” at the mall, suggesting that it would attract a large crowd.
According to Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dotson from the FBI Minneapolis Field Office, “Mohammed met with someone he thought was a loyal member of ISIS to buy an AK-47 rifle, knowing it could be used in a federal crime of terrorism.” He indicated that Mohamud aimed to use the weapon in a busy public area very soon.
Now facing charges for knowingly receiving a firearm intended for a felony and federal terrorism crime, Mohamud’s arrest was described by FBI Director Kash Patel as a significant intervention that likely prevented a mass casualty scenario. Patel noted that the FBI is actively working to counter threats, having arrested over 1,100 individuals in similar cases and achieved significant disruptions related to foreign terrorist organizations.
President Trump also commended the FBI’s actions regarding the case during a press conference, expressing confidence in their efforts.
The investigation, which commenced in December 2024, included a confidential source who communicated significantly with Mohamud through encrypted messages and social media platforms. Discussion topics initially ranged from Mohamud’s desire to leave the U.S. to join al-Shabaab, where he expressed excitement about relocating to Somalia, getting married, and “fighting the enemies of Allah.” He had mentioned needing to work for about six weeks to save money for a plane ticket.
However, by July, the situation appeared to shift. Mohamud reportedly informed the source that he couldn’t afford the trip and instead considered staging an attack locally. He discussed purchasing two pistols online and targeting either the Mall of America or the Minnesota State Fair around Christmas.
Specifically, he contemplated using an assault rifle for an attack at the mall, declaring that he could “drive straight to the crowded place and start shooting.” In September, he even sent a selfie video pledging loyalty to ISIS and its leader.
The FBI facilitated an undercover weapons deal, where on September 25, the source mentioned that a “brother” could sell Mohamud an AK-style rifle. Mohamud expressed interest in obtaining a fully automatic version. On Tuesday, he met with the undercover agent, paying $800 for the rifle, four magazines, and around 200 rounds of ammunition. Although the rifle was rendered inoperable, the ammunition was live. During their encounter, Mohamud allegedly stated he planned to execute a shooting at a “kuffar festival” at the mall.
After leaving the meeting with the rifle and ammunition in a duffel bag, he was arrested at gunpoint by FBI agents.
This story is still unfolding, so further updates can be expected.
