Reuters reported on October 14 that American police said a man arrested in a Chicago suburb had shared a document expressing white supremacist views, and outlined a plan to carry out large-scale shootings, possibly targeting an Hindu religious site.
Pallant police said that 19-year-old Pallant resident Alexandros Papoulakis was arrested on November 11. Previously, someone reported receiving 'concerning electronic communications' from him. It is not yet clear whether he has a lawyer.
The police said that detectives executed a search warrant on Pappolakis's residence, and found a rifle, several loaded rifle magazines, and hundreds of extra rifle rounds.
Paltin police added that among the confiscated items was a tactical vest containing body armor, and a badge with images related to white supremacist extremism.
The detective examined electronic communications and a document that is believed to have been written by Papolakis – “Why I Fight: Also known as: The Aurora Gunmen’s Declaration”. The document contains statements expressing white supremacist and extremist ideologies, including references to violence against South Asians, especially Indians.
The detective believes that Papoulakis may plan to carry out an attack on Sunday, October 11th, targeting a Hindu place of worship in Aurora. Aurora is located about 40 miles (65 kilometers) southwest of Palatine.
The police said, “However, the exact location of the target is still unknown and is under investigation.” They also added that the Federal Bureau of Investigation is assisting in the investigation.
According to reports, after consulting with the prosecutor from the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Pappolakis may face two felony charges: ‘creating a terrorist threat’ and illegal possession of weapons. The suspect attended a detention hearing on the 14th, and a judge ordered his detention. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 30th.
Human rights advocates say that in recent years, there has been a surge in hate towards South Asians in the United States, due to anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies, as well as the rise of white supremacist ideologies.
