Arrest Made in Mall of America Attack Plot

Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, an 18-year-old resident of the Twin Cities, has been arrested following accusations of plotting a mass attack at the Mall of America, scheduled to occur later this month. The FBI apprehended him during an undercover operation in Richfield, Minnesota, as part of their ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

Details of the Arrest

The arrest took place on Tuesday during a prearranged meeting where Mohamud was expected to purchase an assault rifle. Reports indicate that he was apprehended at gunpoint after allegedly obtaining a Norinco AK-47 assault rifle, along with multiple magazines and a substantial amount of ammunition.

Investigation Timeline

According to a federal criminal complaint filed on Wednesday, Mohamud had been in communication with a confidential informant since December 2024. The exchange of numerous messages through various social media and encrypted messaging platforms revealed alarming sentiments, including a desire to commit acts of violence in alignment with extremist ideologies.

Expressed Intentions

Federal officials stated that Mohamud expressed intentions to travel to Somalia to join the terrorist group al-Shabaab. However, after discussing financial constraints that would prevent such travel, he pivoted to plans for an attack in the U.S., stating he would act “for the sake of Allah only.”

Specific Threats Made

In messages to the informant, Mohamud highlighted his interest in striking locations like the Mall of America or Valleyfair amusement park. U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen cited that he had identified the mall as a target because it was “owned by Jewish” interests, reportedly drawing inspiration from prior violent events, including an antisemitic attack in Sydney.

Responses from Law Enforcement

During a press conference, Rosen praised the collaborative effort of the FBI, emphasizing their diligence in detecting and disrupting Mohamud’s plot before it could be realized. “They were able to detect a threat and disrupt it before the defendant carried out his intention to kill, in his words, maybe 30 to 60 people,” Rosen stated.

Warning to Community

In a broader message to parents and guardians, Rosen urged vigilance regarding signs of radicalization. He noted that the FBI had reached out to Mohamud’s family in May 2025 regarding his troubling behavior, although their attempts to engage were not successful.

Next Steps

Mohamud is facing serious charges, including receiving firearms with the knowledge they would be used in the commission of a federal crime of terrorism. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities analyze the extent of his plans and any potential accomplices.

This arrest underscores the importance of community awareness and the proactive measures needed to prevent domestic terrorism.