Eight Charged in Alleged Plot to Attack White House MMA Gala

Eight men have been formally charged in the United States for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to carry out a terrorist attack during an MMA gala held at the White House in June. The event, UFC Freedom 250, was organized to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the USA, coincide with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, and honor Flag Day.

The gala, attended by over 4,000 guests including President Trump's family, politicians, business leaders, and military personnel, took place on White House grounds. An additional 85,000 people watched the fights in a nearby park. Notably, Poland's President Andrzej Duda was also in attendance.

Federal prosecutors in Ohio's Southern District have charged all eight individuals with participation in two separate conspiracies. One conspiracy aimed to provide material support to terrorists, while the other focused on committing murder on federal property and assassinating a government official.

According to the indictment, the suspects began preparations in May, accumulating funds, firearms, ammunition, body armor, explosives, and drones. The alleged plan involved using drones to create panic and herd attendees towards other conspirators armed with sniper rifles and other weapons, who would then open fire. Law enforcement became aware of the potential threat to the gala just four days before the event, on June 10.