FBI and NYPD Thwart Assassination Plot Against Activist Nerdeen Kiswani in Hoboken
Federal and local law enforcement say they stopped an alleged assassination plot against a New York City activist in Hoboken. A criminal complaint unsealed Friday in Newark describes the investigation and a subsequent arrest.
Arrest and search
Authorities executed a search warrant near Willow Avenue and Clinton Street. Police took 29-year-old Alexander Heifler into custody Thursday night.
Heifler faces charges for unlawfully possessing and unlawfully making firearms. Officials say the arrest followed direct undercover surveillance.
Undercover operation
An NYPD undercover officer identified Heifler online and joined a group chat. Investigators say the officer developed a relationship and disrupted the scheme.
The undercover officer reportedly observed Heifler assemble eight Molotov cocktails in Hoboken. That observation was central to the arrest, according to the complaint.
Alleged plot details
Officials allege Heifler planned to throw the devices at the targeted activist that night. The complaint says he discussed a place to hide afterward.
Law enforcement also reports he spoke about leaving the country after the attack. Authorities say the action prevented an imminent threat to the activist.
Target and reactions
The woman identified by authorities is Nerdeen Kiswani. She is a co-founder of Within Our Lifetime and a prominent organizer of pro-Palestinian protests in New York City.
Kiswani posted on social media that the FBI had notified her she was the alleged target. She wrote she would continue her advocacy, according to public posts.
Official statements
The FBI said there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Hoboken Mayor Emily B. Jabbour released a statement saying residents face no danger.
Local officials described the case as a successful joint operation. They credited the undercover NYPD work for preventing violence.
Charges and next steps
The criminal complaint was unsealed in Newark on Friday. Heifler remains charged with weapons offenses tied to the alleged plot.
Prosecutors will review the case for potential additional charges. Courts and investigators will provide further details as the matter proceeds.
SEO note: FBI and NYPD Thwart Assassination Plot Against Activist Nerdeen Kiswani in Hoboken.
