Alexandros Paporakis, 19, was arrested on Sunday in a Chicago suburb, police said. The arrest followed after an individual reported receiving disturbing electronic communications from the suspect.
According to police, Paporakis shared a document outlining white supremacist views. In it, police said, he outlined a plan for a mass shooting, potentially targeting a Hindu place of worship. Detectives executed a search of his home based on a warrant.
During the search, a rifle, multiple rifle magazines and hundreds of additional rounds were found. Among the seized items was a tactical vest with body armour and insignia linked to white supremacist extremism.
Detectives reviewed electronic communications and a document attributed to Paporakis, titled 'Why I Fought: A.K.A.: (Aurora Shooter's Manifesto)'. The document contained statements with white supremacist and extremist ideologies, including references to violence directed at people of South Asian descent, particularly those of Indian heritage.
Detectives believe Paporakis may have been planning an attack on 11 October, potentially targeting a Hindu place of worship in Aurora. Police said the exact location intended had not been confirmed and was the subject of an ongoing investigation. The FBI is assisting in the probe.
Following consultations with prosecutors from the Cook State's Attorney's Office, Paporakis faced charges of 'making a terrorist threat' and illegal possession of a weapon. The suspect appeared in court on Wednesday, where the judge ordered him to be held in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for 30 October. It was not immediately clear if Paporakis has legal representation.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said it was 'deeply concerned' by the incident. It highlighted that the 'anti-Hindu and racist nature' of the incident was 'particularly disturbing'. The ministry expects US authorities to thoroughly investigate the case, bring those responsible to justice, and take all necessary measures to prevent similar incidents.
The statement comes days before the visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to India. Efforts to finalise a bilateral trade agreement between the countries have stalled once again.
