FBI Foils ISIS-Inspired Mass Shooting Plot at Mall of America, Arrests Minnesota Teen
Federal authorities have arrested an 18-year-old Minnesota man accused of planning an ISIS-inspired mass shooting at the Mall of America, according to newly unsealed court records. Sheikhdoon Mohamud of Richfield was taken into custody on Tuesday after allegedly purchasing an AK-47 rifle and 200 rounds of ammunition from a confidential FBI source. Prosecutors say he intended to use the weapon to attack a festival taking place at the mall. He appeared before a federal judge on Wednesday and faces one count of knowingly receiving a firearm and ammunition in order to commit a federal crime of terrorism.
The investigation began in December 2024, when a confidential source working with the FBI started exchanging messages with Mohamud. According to court documents, the two discussed either traveling to Somalia to fight on behalf of al-Shabaab or carrying out a mass casualty attack on U.S. soil. Mohamud allegedly chose the latter, targeting the Mall of America—a sprawling complex in Bloomington, Minnesota, that is one of the largest shopping malls in the United States. Authorities say he planned to kill between 30 and 60 people in support of the Islamic State group.
The arrest was the culmination of a sting operation in which Mohamud allegedly bought the AK-47 and ammunition from an undercover agent. The FBI has been monitoring Mohamud since December 2024, and the case highlights the ongoing threat of homegrown violent extremism. The Mall of America, a symbol of American consumerism and a popular tourist destination, has been mentioned in previous terror plots, making it a high-profile target. Law enforcement officials have not released further details about the festival or the specific timing of the alleged plan.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and interagency cooperation in preventing acts of terrorism. The FBI’s use of confidential sources and undercover agents is a critical tool in identifying and disrupting potential attacks before they occur. As the legal process unfolds, Mohamud is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain alert and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
Shimanta Das 
