The case is breaking and ongoing, with additional updates expected as investigators continue their work.

Authorities say the recovered materials could be used to assemble improvised explosive devices and Molotov cocktails, with components, chemicals, and tools identified and priced by the group.

Law enforcement released video of the defendants testing bombs in the desert, with the FBI stepping in before any device could be completed or detonated.

U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli highlighted the dangers posed by radicalized groups and indicated additional charges could be filed in coming weeks.

Investigators say the group used encrypted Signal communications in a chat titled “Order of the Black Lotus” to discuss the operation, share bomb components, prices, and planning details.

A federal complaint describes a step-by-step process to craft pipe bombs, security measures, and a December trip to the Mojave Desert to construct and test devices.

The suspects are alleged members of an offshoot of the Turtle Island Liberation Front, facing charges including conspiracy and possession of a destructive device.

FBI and DOJ state the case represents an active disruption of a planned terrorism plot tied to that group.

Federal authorities arrested four Los Angeles–area suspects accused of plotting coordinated bombing attacks across Southern California on New Year’s Eve, targeting multiple sites in Orange County and Los Angeles, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and vehicles.

The group allegedly planned five or more locations in Los Angeles for detonation and tested improvised explosive devices in the Lucerne Valley before the planned attacks.

The suspects were apprehended near Twentynine Palms after investigators say one member drafted a detailed bombing plan with step-by-step IED construction instructions.

U.S. Attorney and FBI officials described the operation as a strong example of interagency cooperation to prevent terrorist activity and protect public safety.