NEW YORK, NY – A chilling plot to detonate explosives outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City’s mayor, was thwarted Saturday, authorities announced Monday. Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, both allegedly ISIS supporters, are now facing federal charges after attempting to deploy two improvised explosive devices amidst a volatile protest on the Upper East Side.
The incident unfolded during dueling demonstrations – one labeled “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City, Stop New York City Public Muslim Prayer,” and a counter-protest, “Run Nazis Out of New York City.” According to the Department of Justice, Balat ignited and threw Device-1 toward the crowd around 12:15 p.m. on March 7th. Both men were apprehended by quick-thinking NYPD officers before either device could fully detonate, preventing what officials believe could have been a mass casualty event.
“This was an alleged ISIS-inspired act of terrorism that could have killed American citizens,” Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated bluntly. “We will not allow ISIS’s poisonous, anti-American ideology to threaten this nation.” Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche went further, claiming the suspects “sought to inflict mass casualties…with the hope of exceeding the carnage of the Boston Marathon bombing.” Investigators discovered the devices were packed with metal shrapnel, indicating a clear intent to cause maximum harm.
Following their arrest, both Balat and Kayumi reportedly confessed their allegiance to ISIS. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The FBI and our partners have no tolerance for terrorist organizations or those inspired by them to engage in attacks.” The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact the FBI via tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg described the incident as a “sober reminder of the threat posed by ISIS.” U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York was equally stern: “Violence is not protected speech, and it’s not protected protest. In New York, violence—particularly acts of terror—will be met with swift justice.” Clayton stressed the importance of distinguishing between protected free speech and criminal acts of violence.
The Complaint details the chaotic scene at Gracie Mansion, with opposing groups clashing before Balat and Kayumi allegedly attempted to escalate the situation with explosives. The charges against Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi remain sealed, pending further investigation and court proceedings. Federal prosecutors vow to pursue the maximum penalties allowed under the law for these alleged acts of terror, sending a clear message that such threats will not be tolerated on American soil.
Related Federal Cases
- Bowman, Gun Shop Owner, Sued for Gun Theft, New York, 2023 · New York
- Federal Defendant Sentenced for Weapons Possession, New York NY, 1983 · Washington
- Robert Twiss Charged with Unlawful Rifle Possession, New York NY, 2023 · New York
- Jibreel Williams, Gun Smuggling at Peace Bridge, New York 2024 · Washington
- Alexander Rivera-Santiago, Federal Firearm Possession, New York 2016 · Florida
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
