Florida Man Detained in Connection to Stock Exchange Bombing Conspiracy

Person in orange jumpsuit handcuffed behind bars.

FBI thwarts Florida man’s alleged plot to bomb New York Stock Exchange, aiming to “reboot” the U.S. government.

At a Glance

Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, 30, arrested for planning to bomb NYSE
FBI found bomb-making materials and schematics in Yener’s possession
Yener charged with attempting to use explosive device on building in interstate commerce
Suspect expressed anti-government motives and desire for mass casualties

FBI Uncovers Dangerous Plot

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has arrested Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, a 30-year-old Florida resident, for allegedly planning to bomb the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The arrest comes after a months-long investigation that began in February when authorities received a tip about bomb-making schematics in Yener’s storage unit.

According to the FBI, Yener had been researching bomb-making information online since 2017. During their investigation, agents discovered bomb-making sketches, timers, electronic circuit boards, and other explosive materials in his possession. The suspect allegedly modified two-way radios to act as remote triggers for explosives, demonstrating a serious intent to carry out his plan.

Suspect’s Motivations and Plans

Yener’s alleged plot was driven by anti-government sentiments and a desire to cause widespread chaos. He reportedly told undercover FBI agents that he intended to detonate the bomb the week before Thanksgiving, targeting the stock exchange in Lower Manhattan. The suspect believed this attack would “wake people up” and serve as a way to “reboot” the U.S. government.

In a disturbing comparison, Yener likened the potential impact of his planned attack to “a small nuke went off.” He also expressed intentions to disguise himself while planting the device and planned to send messages to NBC News following the attack, apparently seeking notoriety for his actions.

History of Threats and Extremist Tendencies

Authorities revealed that Yener had a history of making violent threats, which had previously resulted in his termination from a restaurant job. In a concerning development, it was discovered that he had attempted to join far-right extremist groups but was denied membership due to his expressed desire for martyrdom.

Yener’s online activities further highlighted his dangerous intentions. He reportedly posted YouTube videos demonstrating how to create explosives and fireworks using household items, potentially providing instructions to others with similar violent aspirations.

Legal Proceedings and National Security Implications

Following his arrest, Yener made his first court appearance and will remain in detention while awaiting trial. He has been charged with attempting to use an explosive device to damage or destroy a building used in interstate commerce, a serious federal offense that carries significant penalties.

Federal authorities have described Yener’s intentions as “a significant domestic threat,” underscoring the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences had his plan come to fruition. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in identifying and preventing domestic terrorism threats.

As the legal process unfolds, it is clear that this foiled plot highlights the critical importance of vigilance and proactive law enforcement efforts in safeguarding our nation’s financial centers and protecting American citizens from those who seek to cause harm and disrupt our way of life.