Additional Coverage:
In Washington, concerns over a potential terrorist attack led federal agents to arrest eight individuals from Tajikistan, a nation bordering Afghanistan. These men were residing in major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia. Arrested earlier in the month by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), they were charged for violating U.S. immigration laws and are currently detained, facing possible deportation.
Sources familiar with the investigation, yet not authorized to speak publicly, revealed there was no evidence pointing to a planned specific attack, and officials assured there was no immediate threat. The connection to ISIS became a concern after the individuals, who crossed into the U.S. through the southwest border between 2023 and 2024 without proper documentation, were later found to likely have ties to the terrorist organization.
The FBI, through the Joint Terrorism Task Force and with a court-authorized FISA warrant, began an extensive investigation which included monitoring communications and social media activities, revealing contact with individuals linked to ISIS. The aim was to uncover any wider terrorist network within the U.S.
Their arrest prompted a response from the Department of Homeland Security to track down and detain the men during operations across New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia on the weekend of June 8. This action was part of efforts to thwart any potential attack on American soil.
While the investigation continues, no terrorism-related charges have been filed against them. The Justice Department has not commented, and the FBI only reiterated that the individuals are pending deportation proceedings according to a recent statement.
The Department of Homeland Security’s Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, confirmed the custody status of the eight men, acknowledging the lack of adverse information upon their initial encounter but highlighting subsequent actions taken based on raised concerns.
All eight men currently face deportation proceedings, a process potentially complicated by any asylum claims they might make to avoid persecution or harm if returned to their homeland. Following a recent policy update, ICE is now detaining individuals from Tajikistan and other Central Asian countries while they await court proceedings or deportation hearings.