A brother and sister are facing federal charges for allegations surrounding an explosive device found at the MacDill Air Force Base in Florida.
The indictments come after a suspicious package was placed at the base’s visitor center on March 16. Ann Mary Zheng, 27, is in custody. Her 20-year-old brother Alen is in China, according to Fox News.
Alen Zheng allegedly failed to “detonate” the IED on March 10, according to a U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Florida, press release, which noted that the device was found days later and “safely disassembled.”
The federal prosecutor’s office also alleges that Ann Zheng knew about her brother’s plans to cause “damage” to the military base and helped with efforts for him to avoid “apprehension, trial, and punishment.” In addition, prosecutors allege that she also tried to damage a 2010 Mercedes-Benz to limit it as evidence against her brother.
“An IED was placed at MacDill Air Force Base – home to CENTCOM and U.S. Special Operations Command,” FBI Director Kash Patel posted to X on Thursday. The base has recently been in the spotlight due to Operation Epic Fury in Iran, but it’s unclear if the motive is linked to the ongoing conflict. Since the conflict began, there have been concerns raised about the potential for Iranian sleeper cells and lone wolf actors amid the ongoing operation.
“One is in custody for accessory and evidence tampering and the primary suspect is charged with explosives offenses and is currently in China,” Patel added, noting that the bureau “will continue pursuing all those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.”
Despite Alen Zheng currently being in China, the Times reported that both are American citizens and appear to reside in Land O’Lakes, Florida. Both had originally fled to the Asian country after the explosive was placed.
Ann Zheng could face up to 30 years behind bars if convicted. Alen Zheng could face anywhere from 5 to 40 years in prison.
.png)
.png)
