ISIS has been linked to potential threats against malls and population centers this weekend in the Northern Virginia area, according to multiple reports.
The threat ahead of Halloween weekend was confirmed by CBS News and WUSA on Friday.
Localities in the Northern Virginia region are bringing in extra officers, according to Mike Valerio of WUSA.
Police are increasing their presence around shopping malls and high-volume roads and transit areas, WTOP reported.
Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis told WTOP his department will be ready to respond if a threat materializes.
“We have ramped up our presence at places where people shop, at places where people recreate, gather, dine. It’s our responsibility to do that; we routinely do this,” Davis said at a news conference Friday.
The Arlington County Police Department told WTOP it had heard the “non-specific, unconfirmed threat to shopping centers.” The department recommended that shoppers stay attentive, especially in large crowds, WTOP reported.
WTOP reached out to the FBI, which had no comment. The FBI told the news outlet it takes all potential threats to public safety seriously.
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