UD student arrested for planning attack on campus police

CLAYMONT, Del. Authorities have taken a 25-year-old University of Delaware student into custody after discovering a handgun, ammunition, and written plans in his vehicle that referenced martyrdom and targeted a campus police officer, officials report.

Luqmaan Khan was found with a notebook detailing urban warfare strategies, according to an FBI complaint. Subsequent searches of his residence uncovered a scoped rifle, body armor, and a handgun altered with an illegal machine gun conversion device, commonly referred to as a switch.

Khan was arrested on November 24 at Canby Park West in Wilmington by New Castle County police. Officers said he was parked illegally and displayed nervous and uncooperative behavior during the encounter. A vehicle search revealed the weapon, a firearm brace kit, and the notebook, which included combat tactics for multiple weapons and a sketch of the University of Delaware Police Department building.

Authorities stated that Khan expressed a belief that achieving martyrdom was one of the greatest things you can do.

I commend the New Castle County Police Department officers whose swift and professional actions prevented any harm, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, Baltimore office.

Khan, who has no previous arrests, is currently in federal custody and is scheduled for a detention hearing on December 11. His federal public defender, Eleni Kousoulis, has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the case.

Author Commentary: Campus Threats and Preventive Action

The recent arrest of Luqmaan Khan underscores the critical role of proactive law enforcement on university campuses. The discovery of firearms, body armor, and detailed plans targeting campus security highlights a severe threat that was intercepted before any incident could occur.

Authorities acted on clear warning signs, including Khan's written references to “martyrdom” and urban combat tactics. The swift response by New Castle County police, combined with FBI oversight, demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement in preventing potential attacks.

While Khan has no prior criminal record, the presence of illegal modifications to firearms and the detailed planning indicate a high level of premeditation. The upcoming federal detention hearing will determine the next steps in addressing the threat and ensuring campus safety.

This case serves as a reminder that vigilance, timely reporting, and professional intervention are essential in maintaining the security of educational institutions.

Sources:

• University of Delaware student arrested on allegations of plotting an attack against campus police

Author: Logan Reeves
Logan Reeves is a sports analyst and journalist. He writes match reviews, conducts athlete interviews, and produces data-driven predictions.