Two young men have been charged with terrorism-related offences after authorities said they attempted to set off explosive devices during a protest outside the residence of Zohran Mamdani, mayor of New York City.
Police identified the suspects as Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19. Investigators allege the pair tried to ignite homemade explosive devices near Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the mayor, during a protest over the weekend.
Officials said the devices failed to detonate properly, preventing what could have been a potentially deadly attack.
Explosives Discovered at the Scene
Authorities said two explosive devices were thrown during the incident but did not explode. A third device was later discovered in a vehicle believed to be connected to the suspects.
According to investigators, the devices were improvised explosive devices (IEDs) made from glass containers filled with explosive material and surrounded by metal fragments designed to increase damage.
Police said such devices can cause serious harm if detonated in crowded areas.
Suspects Allegedly Linked to Extremist Propaganda
During a news briefing, Jessica Tisch, commissioner of the New York City Police Department, said the suspects had allegedly expressed support for Islamic State and admitted being influenced by extremist propaganda online.
Authorities said the suspects had watched materials associated with the militant group prior to the attempted attack.
Police also noted that both individuals had no known criminal history before the incident.
Attack Could Have Led to Serious Casualties
Investigators said one of the devices contained triacetone triperoxide, a volatile homemade explosive that has been used in previous terror incidents.
Officials warned that if the devices had exploded as intended, they could have caused significant casualties.
Law enforcement authorities said the fact that the explosives malfunctioned likely prevented injuries or deaths.
Protest Scene Turns Tense
The attempted bombing occurred during an anti-Islam protest outside the mayor’s residence. The event was reportedly organized by Jake Lang, a far-right activist previously associated with the January 6 United States Capitol attack.
Police said the protest was met by a larger counter-demonstration, resulting in heated exchanges between the two groups.
Footage from the scene reportedly showed one of the suspects lighting an explosive device before being quickly detained by officers.
Mayor Condemns Violence
Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the incident, stressing that violence and the use of explosives have no place in public demonstrations.
He said the attempt to harm people during a protest was unacceptable and threatened public safety.
Federal Authorities Join Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed that the suspicious devices recovered were improvised explosive devices.
Agents from the Joint Terrorism Task Force are assisting local authorities in the investigation, reviewing surveillance footage and gathering evidence to determine the full scope of the alleged plot.
Additional Arrest During Protest
Police also arrested Ian McGuiness, 21, who allegedly used pepper spray during confrontations between protesters and counter-protesters.
He and three others were charged with disorderly conduct and obstruction.
Security Measures Remain High
Authorities said security remains heightened across New York City as investigations continue.
Officials praised officers who intervened quickly during the incident, noting that their actions likely prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating further.
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