The FBI says it disrupted an alleged plot to attack the UFC event held at the White House, arresting multiple suspects in a multi-state operation before any strike was carried out.

According to federal officials, investigators became aware of a potential threat involving suspects outside the Washington, D.C. area. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau, the Justice Department and law enforcement partners moved quickly, and that “allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”

The reported plot included explosive-laden drones would allegedly be used to strike near the event, trigger panic and push crowds toward a sniper team. A second wave of attackers allegedly planned to move on the White House gates. Initial reporting says five people were arrested, with activity traced through Cincinnati and Fredericksburg, Virginia, and investigators reviewing encrypted Signal chats involving more than 20 users.

UFC Freedom 250 was staged on the White House South Lawn and tied to America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, drawing thousands of attendees, active-duty service members, senior officials and high-profile guests. DHS had already designated the White House event and nearby fan festival as SEAR 1, the highest federal security rating for major U.S. events.