The investigation, which had been underway for weeks, revealed that the suspects referred to their planned attack as “pumpkin day,” a coded phrase meant to disguise their discussions online. Law enforcement officials believe the individuals may have been influenced by extremist ideologies, potentially inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS), and had been radicalized through online platforms.

While authorities have not released the exact number of suspects taken into custody, multiple agencies, including state police and federal counterterrorism units, were involved in the operation. Some reports suggest that five individuals, including possibly one juvenile, are being questioned as part of the ongoing probe.

Officials have not disclosed the specific targets or nature of the planned attack, but sources familiar with the case told reporters that investigators are still reviewing seized electronic devices and communication logs to determine how far the plot had progressed.

“Swift and coordinated action by our teams ensured there was no immediate danger to the public,” an FBI spokesperson said. “At this time, there is no ongoing threat to communities in Michigan.”

Witnesses near one of the raid sites described a heavy law enforcement presence late Friday afternoon, with armored vehicles and agents blocking residential streets as officers moved in. By nightfall, the FBI confirmed that the threat had been neutralized and that additional arrests could follow pending forensic analysis of digital evidence.

The alleged plot highlights the continuing challenges of domestic radicalization, particularly through encrypted online channels. Experts note that extremists often use holidays or major events to attract attention or inflict chaos, making early detection critical.

“We’re seeing a shift toward more isolated online radicalization, where small groups coordinate under innocuous terms or coded language,” said a former counterterrorism analyst. “The use of phrases like ‘pumpkin day’ shows how hidden these threats can be.”

Authorities are now working to determine whether the suspects acted independently or were part of a broader network. Prosecutors are expected to announce formal charges in the coming days once evidence review is complete.

For now, Michigan officials are urging calm while crediting federal and local law enforcement for acting swiftly.

“This could have been a tragedy,” one state official said. “Thanks to quick intelligence work and cooperation between agencies, a potential act of violence was stopped before it began.”