Alleged Bomb Plot Thwarted By FBI

A Florida man’s alleged plot to bomb the New York Stock Exchange was thwarted by the FBI, raising concerns about domestic terrorism threats.

At a Glance

Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, 30, from Coral Springs, Florida, was arrested for planning to bomb the NYSE.
FBI investigation began in February after a tip about bomb-making schematics.
Yener intended to detonate the bomb before Thanksgiving to “reboot” the U.S. government.
Authorities found bomb-making materials and modified two-way radios as remote triggers.

FBI Uncovers Bomb Plot Targeting NYSE

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, a 30-year-old man from Coral Springs, Florida, for allegedly plotting to bomb the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Yener was charged with attempting to use an explosive device to damage or destroy a building used in interstate commerce. The arrest comes after an extensive investigation that began in February following a tip about bomb-making schematics in Yener’s possession.

During their investigation, authorities discovered bomb-making sketches, timers, electronic circuit boards, and other explosive materials in Yener’s storage unit. The suspect had allegedly been researching bomb-making information online since 2017, raising concerns about the long-term nature of his plans.

A homeless Florida man has been arrested and charged with plotting to bomb the New York Stock Exchange to force a "reboot" or "reset" of the U.S. government, according to a criminal complaint. https://t.co/DRdwzeCxRn

— NBC News (@NBCNews) November 21, 2024

Suspect’s Motivations and Plans

Yener’s motivations appear to be rooted in anti-government sentiments and a desire to cause mass casualties. He expressed to undercover FBI agents his intention to detonate the bomb the week before Thanksgiving, targeting the stock exchange in Lower Manhattan. The suspect believed the attack would “wake people up” and described it as a way to “reboot” the U.S. government.

Yener’s plans included disguising himself while planting the device and sending messages to NBC News after the attack. He had modified two-way radios to act as remote triggers for explosives, demonstrating a level of technical preparation for the alleged plot.

History of Threats and Extremist Tendencies

Investigators uncovered a troubling history of threats and attempts to associate with extremist groups. Yener had previously been fired from a restaurant for threatening violence and had attempted to join far-right extremist groups. However, these groups reportedly denied him membership due to his expressed desire for martyrdom.

Federal authorities have described Yener’s intentions as “a significant domestic threat.” This characterization underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating this case and highlights the ongoing challenges in combating domestic terrorism.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Yener has made his first court appearance and will be detained while awaiting trial. As of now, no attorney has been listed for the suspect, and calls to his phone numbers have gone unanswered. The case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of domestic terrorism and the crucial role of law enforcement in preventing such attacks.

As this case progresses through the legal system, it will likely draw attention to the broader issues of domestic extremism and the challenges faced by security agencies in identifying and neutralizing potential threats before they materialize. The swift action by the FBI in this instance demonstrates the ongoing vigilance required to protect national interests and public safety.