Two men have been charged with terrorism-related offences after allegedly throwing a nail bomb near a protest in New York City, according to charging documents released on Monday.
Authorities said the suspects, both US citizens, were taken into custody following the incident, in which an explosive device packed with nails was reportedly thrown close to a demonstration over the weekend. No injuries were reported.
Jessica Tisch, commissioner of the New York City Police Department, said the case is being treated as terrorism linked to the militant group Islamic State.
“This is being investigated as an act of ISIS-inspired terrorism,” Tisch said, adding that authorities do not believe the incident is connected to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Police identified one of the suspects as Emir Balat. Investigators said he allegedly threw two suspicious devices near the protest, which had been organized by a far-right influencer opposing public Muslim prayer.
According to court documents, the suspects referenced ISIS in statements made after their arrest. Investigators said Balat also wrote on a piece of paper pledging allegiance to the militant group.
Both men now face five charges, including attempting to provide support to a foreign terrorist organization and using a weapon of mass destruction.
On Sunday, the police bomb squad also examined a vehicle linked to the suspects near the scene. Officials said a suspicious device found inside the car was later tested and determined not to contain explosives.
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