Dearborn, Michigan — FBI and local law enforcement say they averted a planned Halloween attack after decoding coded messages between two suspects, authorities confirmed Monday.
Federal agents uncovered a string of encrypted communications between individuals identified as Majed Mahmoud and Mohmed Ali. Investigators determined the exchanges included a prearranged code word — “pumpkin” — that, according to sources familiar with the probe, signaled the timing of a planned attack. Acting on that intelligence, agents moved quickly to disrupt the plot before any violence could occur.
Law enforcement officials say the response was the result of coordinated work between the FBI and local police in Dearborn. The suspects were located and taken into custody during the investigation; authorities report there were no casualties and no public injuries connected to the incident. At this stage, investigators are continuing to examine devices, communications and other evidence to establish motive and the full scope of the alleged plan.
A senior law-enforcement official described the case as an example of how signals intelligence and traditional investigative techniques can combine to prevent violence. “Prompt analysis and interagency cooperation allowed us to intervene before anyone was harmed,” the official said in a written statement released by investigators. Prosecutors and agents cautioned that the inquiry remains active and that additional operational details cannot be publicly released while the investigation continues.
Local leaders in Dearborn expressed relief that the situation was resolved without physical harm. City officials thanked federal and local investigators for their work and urged residents to remain calm but vigilant. Schools and community organizations in the area reported no disruptions to planned holiday activities following the arrests.
Federal authorities have not announced whether any formal charges have been filed. The FBI and partnering agencies indicated they will present the evidence to the relevant U.S. Attorney’s Office once the investigative phase is complete. Anyone with information related to the case is being asked to contact the FBI Detroit field office or local police.
The case underscores the ongoing challenge for law enforcement in identifying and countering threats that may be planned using coded language and online communications. Investigators said they will continue to monitor leads and work with community partners to ensure public safety through the upcoming holiday period.