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Federal agents stated on Monday that they had effectively disrupted a elaborate scheme to explode IEDs at multiple sites operated by two American companies on New Year's Eve in the southern part of the state. The operation came after the apprehension of suspects linked to an extremist group advocating for anti-capitalist and anti-authority views.

Those Arrested Taken Into Custody During Remote Rehearsal

Four people were taken into custody last Friday in the remote area situated east of Los Angeles while they were reportedly running through their proposed attack. Federal attorneys presented from above surveillance video to journalists, that showed the individuals carrying a large obscure item to a workspace. Officials noted that the apprehensions were made before the group could put together a working explosive device.

Identities of the Accused Made Public

As per the filed court documents, the four people listed are Carroll, aged 30; Page, 32; Dante Gaffield, 24; and Lai, 41. Each of them are said to be from the LA area.

Reported Motive and Ties

Although officials did not directly describe a rationale, they said the suspects are adherents of a faction dubbed the Turtle Island Liberation Front. This organization reportedly urges "the working class to rebel and combat against corporate power," as per the legal filing.

They face involve conspiracy to commit a crime and owning a explosive. The government stated that further accusations are expected in the next few weeks.

Particulars of the Supposed "The Midnight Sun Plan"

Officials stated that one of the individuals had drafted a meticulous plan last month to attack five or more commercial sites across Southern California on New Year's Eve. The locations were likened to "similar to Amazon" logistical centers.

"This scheme was specific," the attorney remarked. "It included detailed directions to build IEDs … and named numerous targets across Orange County and Los Angeles."

Based on the probe and the complaint, the scheme called for planting backpacks filled with sophisticated explosive devices that were set to be set off all at once at midnight on New Year's Eve at several sites. New Year's Eve was seen as an opportune time as the document noted "fireworks will be going off at this time so explosions will be more difficult to be heard."

An eight-page handwritten blueprint, titled "OPERATION MIDNIGHT SUN," noted that additional sites could be added. The locations were identified as property and buildings operated by two different corporations involved in operations involving interstate and foreign commerce.

Future Plans and Proof Seized

Court documents also indicated that two people in the collective had planned subsequent attacks aimed at immigration enforcement personnel and vehicles with IEDs in 2026. One accused allegedly said that such actions "would kill some and intimidate the rest of them."

Such discussions were reportedly planned both at an in-person assembly in Los Angeles and through an private communication application.

Images featured in the legal filings show a isolated site with what officials identified as explosives-manufacturing components laid out on makeshift work surfaces.

The complaint details that the group "each brought explosive materials to the campsite, such as various sizes of plastic pipes, identified as an oxidizer, fuel, charcoal powder, another chemical, and components to be used as fuses, and more."

Instructions also contained directions on how to construct the explosives and how to avoid leaving traces that could be traced back to the group. The accused had recently purchased chemical ingredients and other goods, with buys from major websites.

Apprehension and Follow-up

Authorities intervened last week as the group were rehearsing the strike in the remote area near a desert community. "They had all the components they were necessary to construct an working IED at that location," the attorney said.

During served search warrants, investigators reportedly discovered posters for the Turtle Island Liberation Front at one suspect's residence that demanded "America Must Fall", and "Eliminate ICE". At another individual's home, police discovered a version of the comprehensive bomb plan.

Those arrested were arrested without incident. They were set to appear in court in Los Angeles on Monday afternoon.