Federal Authorities Arrest Minnesota Man in Alleged Mall of America Attack Plot
Federal authorities have arrested an 18-year-old Minnesota man who is accused of planning an attack at the Mall of America during a large cultural celebration, according to a federal criminal complaint.
Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud was arrested Tuesday after investigators allege he obtained a rifle and ammunition as part of a suspected plan targeting the Bloomington shopping center. The allegations are outlined in court documents filed in federal court.
Authorities Say Cultural Event Was Identified as Potential Target
According to the complaint, Mohamud allegedly identified the Mall of America’s Hmong Arts Celebration, scheduled for Oct. 24, as a potential target because he believed the event would attract a large crowd.
Investigators also allege that Mohamud discussed plans for a mass-casualty attack with an FBI confidential source. Authorities say he later posted a video online expressing support for ISIS.
The investigation reportedly began well before Tuesday’s arrest and involved extensive communications between Mohamud and a confidential source through social media and encrypted messaging platforms.
Arrest Followed Alleged Firearm Purchase
Federal authorities say Mohamud traveled to an arranged meeting in Richfield on Tuesday to obtain a firearm.
According to the FBI affidavit, agents arrested him after he left an undercover vehicle carrying a rifle, several magazines and ammunition. Prosecutors allege that he knowingly obtained the firearm and ammunition for use in connection with a planned federal offense.
The complaint identifies the firearm as a Norinco AK-47, model Mac-90 Sporter.
Authorities allege that the planned conduct could involve providing or attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Investigation Identified Multiple Possible Locations
Court documents indicate that the Mall of America was not the only location allegedly discussed during the investigation.
In July, Mohamud allegedly told an FBI source that he had considered traveling overseas but was instead contemplating an attack in the United States. Investigators say he discussed the Mall of America and Valleyfair amusement park as possible locations.
Authorities allege that his focus eventually shifted toward the Mall of America and the Hmong Arts Celebration.
The complaint also alleges that Mohamud expressed antisemitic views and referred to a deadly attack in Sydney, Australia, when discussing his alleged plans. Investigators say he later posted a video on Discord pledging allegiance to ISIS.
Federal Investigation Included Extensive Communications
The investigation involved a confidential human source who allegedly exchanged hundreds of messages with Mohamud between December 2024 and the time of his arrest.
According to the complaint, those communications took place across several social media and encrypted messaging platforms.
Investigators also allege that Mohamud previously expressed interest in traveling to Somalia to join al-Shabaab and potentially participate in an attack in Minnesota.
FBI agents reportedly contacted Mohamud’s parents in May 2025 as part of the investigation. According to court documents, his father declined to provide information about himself or his son and directed investigators to an attorney.
What Happens Next?
The case is now moving through the federal court system. Prosecutors have accused Mohamud of federal offenses connected to the alleged acquisition of a firearm and ammunition and the suspected terrorism-related plans.
The allegations described in the criminal complaint have not been proven in court. Mohamud is presumed innocent unless and until he is found guilty.
The investigation remains a developing federal case, and additional court filings or statements from prosecutors and defense attorneys could provide further information about the allegations and the next steps in the proceedings.
Benjamin Harris is a RapidReports front page contributor and editor,proud father of four.
