Eight charged over alleged plot to attack Trump's birthday UFC event with drones and snipers

Eight men face federal charges for allegedly plotting to attack a UFC fight event held at the White House to celebrate President Donald Trump's birthday. The planned assault, which authorities became aware of days before the June 10th event, reportedly involved using drones and snipers.

According to the indictment, the group began planning the attack in May, gathering resources such as firearms, ammunition, drones, and communication equipment. The charges filed include providing material support to terrorists, conspiracy to commit murder on federal property, and conspiracy to murder a U.S. government official. One of the accused was allegedly designated to act as a sniper.

Authorities were alerted to the potential threat just four days before the event. The individuals are described as holding radical conspiracy theories and aiming to destabilize the government through their planned attack. The investigation led to seven initial arrests, with an additional arrest made in West Virginia. The charges were formally brought in Ohio, targeting the group's alleged conspiracy to carry out violence at a high-profile event.

This alleged plot underscores the persistent security challenges faced by government officials and events, even within seemingly secure locations like the White House. The involvement of drones and coordinated sniper attacks highlights evolving tactics potentially employed by extremist groups.