FBI Arrests Teen Over Alleged ISIS Plot at Mall of America

The case began with a lengthy investigation, rather than an attack at the mall. According to NDTV Top Stories, authorities said the 18-year-old had been under investigation for nearly two years and exchanged messages with a confidential informant.

Federal authorities identified him as Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud. CBS Top Stories reported the FBI's allegation that he eyed the Mall of America as a target and pledged allegiance to ISIS.

Reports published on October 7, 2026, described an undercover operation aimed at disrupting the alleged plan. The supplied coverage does not give separate dates for the messages, firearms transaction or arrest.

According to The Hill, an FBI source said Mohamud repeatedly affirmed an intention to carry out an attack to kill non-Muslims. Times of India Top Stories reported that he agreed to buy an AK-47 and ammunition from an undercover FBI agent posing as an ISIS member.

NDTV Top Stories reported that an undercover FBI employee sold him the rifle and ammunition for $600, after which agents arrested him on the spot. Authorities announced the disrupted plot on Wednesday, according to New York Post.

ABCNews.com reported that the U.S. attorney for Minnesota said the FBI had arrested an 18-year-old for allegedly planning a mass casualty attack at the mall. The accounts describe a foiled plot, not a shooting that took place.

According to CBS Top Stories, federal authorities allege Mohamud knowingly received a firearm and ammunition while knowing, or having reasonable cause to believe, they would be used to commit a felony and a federal terrorism crime. These remain allegations. The supplied coverage does not report a plea, a court ruling or a date for a next hearing.