Two teenagers accused of throwing improvised explosive devices during a protest near Gracie Mansion in New York City allegedly praised ISIS and made extremist statements after their arrest, according to federal authorities.
Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, were taken into custody Saturday after police say they deployed two explosive devices during demonstrations near the official residence of the New York City mayor.
Federal investigators say the suspects traveled from Pennsylvania to Manhattan with the intent to create chaos and violence.
Suspects Allegedly Declared Support for ISIS
According to a federal complaint, Balat made extremist remarks shortly after officers placed him under arrest.
“This isn’t a religion that just stands when people talk about the blessed name of the prophet,” Balat allegedly told officers.
Authorities say that once he arrived at an NYPD precinct, Balat requested pen and paper and wrote a manifesto praising the Islamic State.
In the document, he allegedly pledged allegiance to the terrorist organization and used language targeting nonbelievers.
The Islamic State, also known as ISIS, is designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. government. Information about terrorist designations can be found through the U.S. Department of State.
Bodycam Footage Captures Statement
Authorities say Kayumi also made statements linking the attack to ISIS.
Police body camera footage reportedly captured someone asking Kayumi why he carried out the attack as officers placed him into a patrol vehicle.
“ISIS,” he allegedly responded.
Investigators say Kayumi later admitted that he had watched ISIS propaganda videos on his phone and said the extremist group partially inspired his actions.
Federal agencies have repeatedly warned about online radicalization through extremist propaganda, according to reports from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Explosives Thrown Near Police
The suspects allegedly deployed two improvised explosive devices during the protests Saturday afternoon.
According to authorities, one of the devices was thrown near a group of police officers.
Law enforcement quickly responded and arrested both suspects before additional harm occurred.
No deaths were reported in the incident, though investigators are still reviewing evidence and witness statements.
Investigation Continues
Federal prosecutors say the case highlights ongoing concerns about extremist influence and radicalization among young individuals.
Authorities are continuing to review digital evidence, including phones and online activity, to determine whether others may have been involved.
The suspects now face serious federal charges as the investigation into the attempted attack continues.
Officials say security remains heightened around key locations in New York City while the case proceeds through the federal court system.