Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York | Department of Justice
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced on Apr. 7 an eight-count indictment against Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi for their alleged involvement in a terrorist attack in Manhattan on March 7, 2026. The charges relate to an incident outside Gracie Mansion where the defendants are accused of attempting to detonate explosive devices during overlapping protests.
The indictment is significant due to the potential threat posed by the alleged actions and the broader implications for public safety in New York City. Authorities say that immediate police intervention prevented greater harm.
“As alleged, just weeks ago, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi carried out a terrorist attack on the streets of New York,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “They sought to murder multiple innocent victims in the name of ISIS. The brave women and men of the NYPD responded immediately, and Balat and Kayumi were arrested on site... Today’s indictment is another step in holding the defendants accountable for their alleged conduct.”
FBI Director Kash Patel said: “These individuals allegedly prepared explosive devices and attempted to detonate them on the streets of New York in the name of ISIS, but their plan failed thanks to the brave police officers who acted quickly.” FBI Assistant Director James C. Barnacle Jr. added that evidence recovered from their vehicle included detailed notes about bomb-making materials as well as dashcam recordings documenting plans for mass casualties.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch stated: “What they allegedly set in motion was an ISIS-inspired act of terrorism with the potential for mass casualties... It was stopped because of quick-thinking, decisive actions by NYPD.” Forensic analysis revealed that one device thrown into a crowd consisted of TATP explosives packed with nuts and bolts—a substance known as "Mother of Satan" due to its volatility.
Both defendants face charges including conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and attempted use of weapons of mass destruction; some counts carry possible life sentences if convicted. Officials emphasized that all facts described remain allegations unless proven otherwise.
