Federal authorities arrested 18-year-old Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud in Richfield, Minnesota, on Tuesday. The arrest followed an undercover FBI operation that intercepted an alleged mass shooting plot targeting the Mall of America in support of the Islamic State (ISIS). U.S. Attorney for Minnesota Dan Rosen announced the arrest on Wednesday, detailing a months-long counterterrorism investigation.
According to unsealed federal court documents, Mohamud communicated with an FBI confidential source through social media and encrypted messaging applications starting around December 2024. Investigators stated that the suspect initially discussed leaving the United States to join foreign extremist organizations, including al-Shabaab and al Qaeda, before ultimately pledging allegiance to ISIS.
Details of the Foiled Plot and Weapon Purchase
Investigators stated that by July, Mohamud shifted his focus from traveling abroad to carrying out a domestic attack. The criminal complaint alleges that he targeted a high-traffic public gathering, identifying the Hmong Arts Celebration scheduled for October 24 at the Mall of America as a primary objective because it would draw a large crowd.
During the sting operation, an undercover FBI employee arranged to sell a firearm to the suspect. Authorities stated that Mohamud met the undercover operative at a public park on Tuesday and paid $600 for a Norinco AK-47 Mac-90 Sporter rifle along with approximately 200 rounds of 7.62×39-caliber ammunition. Federal agents intervened and arrested him immediately after the transaction.
“Mohamud planned to use the gun he bought in a high-traffic public area just a few weeks’ time in support of a designated foreign organization,” said Christopher Dotson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Mohamud faces a federal charge involving firearm possession and receipt connected to an alleged terrorism offense. This specifically involves receiving a weapon and ammunition while knowing or having reasonable cause to believe they would be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism.
U.S. Attorney Dan Rosen and FBI leadership highlighted the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement agencies in tracking digital communications and neutralizing the threat before any violence could occur. The investigation remains active as federal prosecutors prepare the case for the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud?
Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud is an 18-year-old resident of Minnesota who was arrested by federal authorities for allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired mass shooting attack.
What specific location was targeted in the plot?
Court documents state that Mohamud targeted the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, specifically focusing on the Hmong Arts Celebration planned for October 24.
What weapons were recovered during the FBI operation?
Federal agents recovered a Norinco AK-47 Mac-90 Sporter rifle and approximately 200 rounds of 7.62×39-caliber ammunition following an undercover transaction.
What charges does the suspect face?
Mohamud faces federal charges relating to the knowing receipt of a firearm and ammunition intended for use in committing a federal crime of terrorism.
How long was the suspect under FBI investigation?
Law enforcement officials stated that the investigation began around December 2024, involving extensive digital monitoring and communication through an undercover confidential source.
