Wolverine Watchmen Militia group plots to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
13 men from a Wolverine Watchmen group were charged for plotting a kidnapping plan on Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The group also has plans to storm Michigan’s Capitol building.
The Federal Court charged six men for conspiring in kidnapping Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Seven others were found in association with the paramilitary group and will face charges from the State Court for allegedly seeking war against the Michigan Capitol.
If the charged six men are convicted, they will all be sentenced to life in prison. On the other hand, the remaining seven individuals will face up to 20 years in prison under state terrorism charges.
The master plan that failed
The FBI officials say that the group had a meticulous plan that talks about kidnapping and killing. The officials further stated that the group trains together, with various plans of spreading violence.
Four of the accused individuals planned a meet-up on October 7 (Wednesday) to purchase explosives and tactical gears. The officials say that they were able to stop the tragedy from happening with undercover agents and informants.
Furthermore, the terrorists see Whitmer having an uncontrollable power.
The state officers added that the accused planned bombing a highway bridge to divert the police officials from reaching the place. They added that surveillance and rehearsals were also performed and planned to snatch her from her vacation home.
Disagreements should not lead to violence
In light of the incident, Detroit’s US Attorney Matthew Schneider described the suspects as violent extremists. He further stated that the citizens can disagree with politics but should never commit acts of violence.
Moreover, Governor Whitmer thanked the city and state officials for effectively eliminating the danger. She said that the pandemic is a time to be together.
The governor accused President Donald Trump of provoking such violence during the pandemic. She referred to Trump’s statement, “stand back and stand by,” on the presidential debate. Whitmer believes that the statement rally and encourage such extremist groups.
War in social media
In initial plans, Whitmer was supposed to be the running mate of Joe Biden. She was widely applauded for her strict lockdown rules and other measures to fight the spread of COVID-19.
However, the president blamed her in his tweets, saying she closed everything but not her husband’s boating activities. Trump further urged Whitmer to open the state’s schools, churches, and other places amid the rising COVID-19 cases.
Image courtesy of weberjake/Shutterstock