An 18-year-old New Jersey man was arrested at Newark Liberty International Airport on Wednesday for his alleged involvement in a plot to attack a U.S. electrical substation. Authorities say the man, who was on his way to Ukraine to join a volunteer fighting unit, was arrested before boarding a flight to Paris.
The man, identified as Andrew Takhistov, had been in communication with an undercover agent since January. During their conversations, Takhistov discussed plans to attack an electrical substation and provided information on constructing Molotov cocktails, appropriate clothing to wear, and strategies to avoid detection.
According to court documents, Takhistov expressed white supremacist views and advocated for violence against Black and Jewish communities. He also discussed a 'three-step plan for white domination,' which included ending the war in Ukraine, invading Russia, and supporting National Socialist political parties in Europe and America.
Authorities allege that Takhistov's ultimate dream was to attack a synagogue with a Hamas-style rocket. He reportedly mentioned the Oklahoma City bombing as an example of the type of event that would further his extremist agenda.
New Jersey U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger emphasized that such terroristic threats would not be tolerated. He stated that law enforcement agencies would work diligently to identify and bring to justice individuals who attempt to carry out acts of violence.
The arrest of Andrew Takhistov highlights the ongoing efforts to combat domestic terrorism and protect communities from extremist ideologies. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to prevent potential acts of violence.
