Explosives near Gracie Mansion investigated as 'ISIS-inspired terrorism'

"One of the devices, Tisch said, contained TATP, "a dangerous and highly volatile homemade explosive that has been used in IED attacks around the world." The NYPD is investigating a third possible explosive device found in a car linked to Balat and Kayumi, who traveled to Manhattan from Pennsylvania, officials said. That device was consistent with the other two homemade explosives and prompted evacuations of nearby buildings as police used a robot to secure the scene."

"They faced a chaotic situation that very quickly could have become far more dangerous," Mamdani said. "While I found this protest appalling, I will not waver in my belief that it should be allowed to happen. I will defend that right every day I am mayor, even when those protesting say things that I abhor.""

"Two people, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, were taken into custody in connection with the devices and were expected to be formally charged on Monday, Tisch said. The devices were ignited as protesters and counterprotesters squared off during the "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" rally, which was organized and led by a conservative influencer."

Two improvised explosive devices were ignited outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, during a "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" rally on Saturday. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed one device contained TATP, a highly volatile homemade explosive used in attacks worldwide. Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi were arrested after being seen on video throwing explosive devices toward protesters. A third possible explosive was discovered in a vehicle linked to the suspects, who traveled from Pennsylvania. The NYPD is investigating the incident as ISIS-inspired terrorism. Mayor Mamdani thanked police for their swift response while defending the right to peaceful protest, despite calling the initial rally "vile" and rooted in white supremacy.

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