via The Daily Beast
Officials in New York have foiled a potential terror plot, likely saving “many, many lives,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said late Thursday. Two twin brothers were arrested in the Bronx earlier in the day on suspicion of building an explosive device, authorities said. The pair, identified as Christian Toro and Tyler Toro, had allegedly stockpiled more than 32 pounds of ingredients for explosives, though their motive and planned target remain unclear. A note discovered by investigators reportedly referenced an apparent plot dubbed “Operation Flash,” along with the message, “Under the full moon the small ones will know terror.” One of the brothers, Christian Toro, is a former high school teacher in Harlem and was arrested on Jan. 31 on statutory rape charges. According to the criminal complaint, the brothers paid students to destroy fireworks and preserve the powder that comes out. Authorities have said they believe the two were working alone.