LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — Federal authorities say they thwarted a credible terrorist plot over the weekend, arresting four members of a radical pro-Palestinian extremist group who allegedly planned New Year’s Eve bombings in Los Angeles. The FBI said the suspects belonged to a radical offshoot of the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF). The group is known for its anti-government, anti-law enforcement, and pro-Palestinian views. Authorities said the group was preparing coordinated attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) across multiple locations in Los Angeles.
Officials said the suspects targeted five separate areas in Los Angeles. They were arrested in Lucerne Valley while allegedly preparing to test explosive devices ahead of the planned attacks. Each suspect faces charges of conspiracy and possession of a destructive device. A fifth individual linked to the group was arrested in New Orleans for allegedly planning a separate attack.
The FBI described TILF as a far-left extremist group. According to authorities, the group promotes anti-capitalist and anti-government beliefs. They reportedly plan attacks against federal agents and government targets, including United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicles. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California identified the suspects as Audrey Carroll, 30, Zachary Aaron Page, 32, Dante Garfield, 24, and Tina Lai, 41. All four are from the Los Angeles area.
“Carroll’s bomb plot was explicit,” U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said during a press conference. He added that authorities plan to file additional charges as evidence continues to be reviewed.
TILF describes itself on social media as a group seeking to “free Turtle Island,” a term used to refer to North America. The organization’s posts call for freeing Palestine, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico and speak against American imperialism.
Officials warned that TILF’s radical ideology makes it a serious threat. “This was an incredible effort by our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the FBI to ensure Americans can live in peace,” said Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. Authorities emphasized that the arrests prevented what could have been deadly attacks on New Year’s Eve. They urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
Security concerns have been heightened globally after recent violent incidents. For instance, Paris canceled its annual New Year’s Eve concert due to a spike in crime. Officials in Los Angeles and other U.S. cities are reviewing public events and law enforcement measures in response to ongoing threats.
Federal authorities continue to investigate the group and its networks across the United States. They are reviewing digital communications, social media posts, and potential connections to other extremist organizations. The FBI stressed the importance of cooperation between federal and local law enforcement to prevent terrorist attacks. Officials said the case serves as a reminder that extremist ideologies continue to pose a domestic threat.
