According to reports, US Capitol Police prepares for a “possible plot to attack the Capitol” by a group of “identified militia group” based on a conspiracy theory suggesting that former US President Donald Trump would return to power on March 4.
In the statement released by the Capitol Police, they say that they have upgraded the security to the Capitol earlier this week following an intelligence report hinting possible plot attack on March 4. The tightened security includes “establishing a physical structure and increasing manpower to ensure the protection of Congress, the public and our police officers”. The statement further added that the police are “working with our local, state, and federal partners to stop any threats to the Capitol”. Moreover, it said, “We are taking the intelligence [report] seriously. Due to the sensitive nature of this information, we cannot provide additional details at this time.”
On Wednesday, acting intelligence chief of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Melissa Smislova has confirmed that they had issued a joint intelligence bulletin about the “extremists discussing March 4 and March 6”. Following the January 6 riot, the security around the Capitol has been tightened. The riot, which interrupted Congress’ electoral vote count of US President Joe Biden’s victory, witnessed the death of five people including a Capitol police officer.
Aiming to stop the US Congress from confirming Joe Biden’s victory over US President Donald Trump, thousands of Trump supporters breached the security and entered the Capitol building in Washington DC on January 6. The pro-Trump protestors created chaos that resulted in four fatalities — a woman who was shot by the US Capitol Police, as well as two men and one woman, who died in other medical emergencies. Besides, nearly 52 people were arrested including 26 on US Capitol grounds.
Before that, Donald Trump had urged his supporters to conduct a rally the day the US House of Representatives and Senate were scheduled to certify the results of the Electoral College. The Trump supporters fought through police barricades, stormed the building, and entered the lawmakers’ chambers. Immediately, the certification process was stopped and everyone including Vice President Mike Pence and Congress members was evacuated.
