Federal Authorities Thwart New Year’s Eve Terror Scheme in Southern California

Federal officials in Los Angeles have successfully disrupted a planned terror attack linked to an extremist faction, ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations. Authorities reported that four individuals associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front, a group connected to pro-Palestinian anti-government movements, were taken into custody on charges of orchestrating a coordinated bombing across multiple locations in southern California.

The arrests occurred last week as the suspects journeyed to a desert area east of Los Angeles to conduct tests on improvised explosive devices, according to law enforcement. The FBI asserts that the operation has effectively dismantled the threat, though investigations into additional suspects continue.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced via social media that law enforcement agencies had thwarted a significant and dangerous plot by what she termed “far-left” extremists. The individuals arrested include Audrey Illeene Carroll, 30; Zachary Aaron Page, 32; Dante Gaffield, 24; and Tina Lai, 41, all facing charges related to conspiracy and possession of an unregistered explosive device, as detailed in a complaint submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

On December 12, the group allegedly transported “precursor chemicals” to the desert with intentions of constructing bombs. Surveillance footage captured by an aerial unit documented their activities, leading to a swift intervention by the Los Angeles FBI SWAT team and subsequent arrests without any resistance.

The plot involved plans to deploy explosive devices targeting two logistics centers at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve within the Los Angeles vicinity. Furthermore, the group reportedly discussed plans to launch attacks on Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and their vehicles utilizing pipe bombs in the upcoming months, as stated in the legal complaint.

Carroll purportedly remarked, “That would take some of them out and scare the rest of them.”

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized that the successful prevention of this plot highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among law enforcement. He stated that the teamwork across various agencies played a crucial role in averting what could have been a catastrophic event and reinforced their ongoing dedication to protecting the community.