Justice for J6: Violence suspected by Homeland Security at Washington rally

The Justice for J6 rally could see some potential violence from either people who are protesting or those who stand against it, the United States Department of Homeland Security said in an intelligence briefing, according to US media reports. The rally is scheduled for Saturday in Washington DC near the Capitol complex.

The briefing memo added that there is a possibility of premature violence too, which could occur a day before the actual event, CNN reported.

Also Read: Justice for J6: Donald Trump calls rally a ‘setup’ for Republicans

A subsidiary arm of the Homeland Security department indicated that the prediction is being made on the basis of threats that were made online. 

The statement from the federal department’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis read, “We are aware of a small number of recent online threats of violence referencing the planned rally, including online discussions encouraging violence the day before the rally”, according to reports from CNN.

The statement also explained a threat posed by lone offenders and/or small groups who can resort to “violence with little-to-no warning, particularly in response to confrontational encounters with perceived opponents or calls for escalation by key influencers”, CNN reported.

The federal department also shed light on social media users’ intentions who said that they will breach into the United States Capitol on the eve of the rally. One user also reportedly said they intend to kidnap a member of the United States Congress.

Also Read: Justice for J6: Joe Biden, Donald Trump banners not allowed at rally

Even though ‘Look Ahead America’, the organisers for the event, have clarified that they do not intend any violence, law enforcement officials will be erecting fences around the Capitol complex. The US Capitol Police requested the Pentagon to keep National Guard on standby in case any violence breaks out.

Former US President Donald Trump said in a statement that the upcoming Justice for J6 rally in Washington DC is a “setup” for those who support the Republican party.