Ignited Devices Thrown Near Zohran Mamdani’s New York Residence During Anti-Muslim Protest
Police in New York detained a man after he allegedly threw what officers described as “ignited devices” near protesters demonstrating outside the residence of the city’s mayor on Saturday, officials said.
The incident occurred outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, during a demonstration organised by far-right activist Jake Lang.
According to police, the devices contained nuts, bolts and screws along with a fuse, though authorities said it was not immediately clear whether they were functional improvised explosive devices or hoax imitations.
New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch said investigators were examining the materials recovered from the scene.
“Devices containing nuts, bolts, screws and a fuse were recovered, but it is still being determined whether they were functional improvised explosive devices or imitation devices,” Tisch said.
Police said the incident took place while a small group of demonstrators gathered outside the mayor’s residence to protest against what organisers described as “Islamification” and to oppose public Muslim prayer in the city.
Authorities said the protest involved about 20 demonstrators, while approximately 125 counter-protesters were also present at the location.
Witnesses said a man wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and beige cargo pants was handed a taped device emitting smoke by another individual. He then dropped it near a police line before jumping over a crash barrier.
Police officers immediately moved in and detained the suspect, preventing any injuries during the incident.
Officials said two suspects identified as Amir Balat and Ibrahim Nick were taken into custody in connection with the incident.
Commissioner Tisch said there was currently no indication that the incident was linked to the ongoing hostilities involving Iran.
Authorities also said it was not immediately known whether Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife Rama Duwaji were present at the residence at the time.
Police have launched an investigation to determine the nature of the devices and the circumstances surrounding the incident. [KNT]
