A former member of the Michigan National Guard has been arrested for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at a military base on behalf of the Islamic State, as confirmed by the Justice Department on Wednesday.
Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed, 19, was taken into custody on Tuesday after visiting the US Army’s Tank Automation Director’s Command (TACOM) facility. Reportedly, he advised an undercover FBI agent, who he thought was sympathetic to his cause, to have around seven magazines on hand, suggesting that running out of ammunition was not an option.
Currently, he is facing serious charges, including attempting to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations and disseminating information related to destructive devices. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years for each count.
The situation has raised alarms, with Sue J. Bye, director of the Department of Justice National Security Division, stating, “The defendant is charged with planning a fatal attack on a US military base as part of his ISIS allegiance.” She emphasized that law enforcement’s dedication played a crucial role in preventing potential loss of life, indicating a strong commitment to prosecute individuals aiming to harm military personnel and American citizens.
According to the Justice Department, undercover agents were involved in the plot, with Abdulmajid-Mohamed providing information about how to access TACOM and identify target buildings.
It was noted that his communication with an undercover FBI agent started in June 2024. During these interactions, he articulated a long-held desire to travel to ISIS territories or engage in attacks within the US, revealing a mindset deeply entwined with violent jihad.
The criminal complaint reports that on July 18, 2024, FBI agents executed a search warrant for Abdulmajid-Mohamed’s iPhone, highlighting his attempts to coordinate with the Michigan Army National Guard.
Furthermore, the complaint outlines that in a series of Facebook messages, he expressed a desire to participate in jihad, while also engaging with other users who directed him to communicate via the encrypted messaging app, Telegram.
Abdulmajid-Mohamed enlisted in the Michigan Army National Guard in September 2022, completed basic training at Fort Moore, Georgia, and was later assigned to the Taylor Armory before being discharged in December 2024.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is currently leading the investigation.
