FBI arrests five in connection with White House attack plot during UFC event

Why it matters locally: Given Virginia's proximity to Washington D.C. and its designation as a high-threat urban area, any threats against federal landmarks like the White House can heighten security concerns and operational readiness for law enforcement and emergency services across Northern Virginia.

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Federal law enforcement officials said they disrupted a plan to attack the White House coinciding with a UFC event set for Sunday. The FBI arrested five suspects in the investigation. Agents continue pursuing others believed to be involved in the alleged plot. Authorities did not immediately release details about the specific threats investigators identified, the method the suspects purportedly planned to use, or the identities of those arrested. The timing of the disclosed arrests came days before the scheduled UFC event at the venue near the White House. The disruption reflects ongoing security measures federal agencies maintain around the White House and other sensitive government sites, particularly during large public events that draw crowds to the area. NBC News correspondent Kelly O'Donnell reported on the FBI's actions and the ongoing investigation.