Authorities have charged two young men with terrorism offences after an alleged bomb attempt outside the home of New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Police said the suspects tried to detonate homemade explosives during a protest near Gracie Mansion in New York City.
Suspects and Charges
Officials identified the suspects as 18-year-old Emir Balat and 19-year-old Ibrahim Kayumi.
Investigators said the pair attempted to set off two explosive devices outside the mayor’s residence on Saturday. None of the bombs exploded as intended. Officers later discovered a third device inside their vehicle.
Both suspects now face several charges, including attempting to provide material support to Islamic State and using a weapon of mass destruction.
Attack Allegedly Inspired by ISIS
According to police, the suspects admitted they were influenced by propaganda from ISIS. Investigators said the pair had watched extremist videos before planning the attack.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the suspects had no previous criminal history.
Authorities also reported that one suspect made statements praising ISIS while officers transported him to the police station.
Comparison to Boston Marathon Bombing
Police said one suspect claimed he wanted the attack to be “even bigger” than the Boston Marathon bombing.
That 2013 attack killed three people and injured hundreds of spectators and runners.
Officials said the devices used in the New York incident could have caused serious damage if they had exploded.
Explosive Devices and Police Response
Investigators found that one device contained triacetone triperoxide, a volatile homemade explosive often used in terrorist attacks.
Police used a robot to examine the suspects’ vehicle on the Upper East Side. Officers discovered another explosive device inside the car.
Authorities confirmed the devices were improvised explosive devices, also known as IEDs.
Protest and Arrests
The incident happened during an anti-Islam protest outside the mayor’s residence. Counter-protesters also gathered at the location.
Mayor Mamdani later condemned the protest and the attempted attack. He said the suspects must be held fully accountable.
“We will continue to keep New Yorkers safe,” he said. “We will not tolerate terrorism or violence in our city.”
Police also arrested Ian McGuiness, 21, for allegedly using pepper spray during the protest. Officers charged him and three others with disorderly conduct and obstruction.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation continues with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York City Police Department.
Authorities said counter-terrorism teams remain on high alert as they review evidence and interview witnesses.
