NEW YORK, NY – The FBI has apprehended a Pakistani national in connection with an alleged plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump. The suspect, identified as Aif Merchant, entered the United States in April, according to federal prosecutors in Brooklyn. During his stay, Merchant reportedly attempted to hire hitmen to execute his plan to assassinate government officials on American soil.
The criminal complaint does not explicitly name Trump as a target, but multiple sources familiar with the investigation confirm that the former president was among those targeted. The individuals Merchant contacted to carry out the assassination turned out to be confidential informants for the FBI, ensuring there was no imminent threat.
The FBI had been monitoring Merchant for several months before arresting him on July 12, just as he was about to board a flight and leave the country. Notably, this arrest occurred one day before Trump was scheduled to hold a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where an unrelated attempt on his life took place.
Authorities have stated that there is no evidence linking Merchant to the 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, who attempted to shoot Trump at the Pennsylvania rally. The FBI has found no connections between Crooks and any foreign operatives. However, in the wake of the rally and assassination attempt, the Secret Service made adjustments to Trump’s security plan, possibly influenced by intelligence suggesting a broader threat.
The investigation into Merchant’s activities has shed light on the complexities of ensuring the safety of high-profile political figures. While the immediate danger was neutralized, the case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in preempting and thwarting such plots.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full extent of Merchant’s plans and any potential connections to other individuals or groups. The case serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to protect public figures and maintain national security.