FBI foils plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer: statement

CGTN

text

FLE PHOTO: Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, speaks during a past campaign event. /Getty Images

The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) thwarted an attempt to oust the Michigan state government and abduct its governor, Gretchen Whitmer, a federal affidavit revealed.

According to the document, six men plotted to try to kidnap Whitmer at her vacation home. Five of the conspirators are from Michigan while one is from Delaware.

Four of the suspects had planned "make a payment on explosives and exchange tactical gear," according to the FBI.

One of the suspects is quoted by the FBI as saying Whitmer "has no checks and balances at all. She has uncontrolled power right now. All good things must come to an end."

The plot to overthrow the administration involved reaching out to a militia group.

One of the conspirators, Adam Fox, is alleged to have said he needed 200 men to attack the Capitol building in Lansing and take hostages, including the governor.

Fox said he wanted to try Whitmer for "treason" and would execute the plan before the November 3 election, the FBI said.

The operation against the attempt will be announced at a news conference of law enforcement officials, among them Attorney General Dana Nessel, later on Thursday in Grand Rapids.

Informants and undercover agents were used by the authorities to foil the plot.

Source(s): AP