Enemy within?
»»Rehearsal inauguration is evacuated »»FBI fear of Trump-loyal military staff
A REHEARSAL for Joe Biden’s inauguration descended into chaos when an “external security threat” sparked an evacuation – as the FBI vetted troops securing the event.
As the event was abandoned, around 10.30am yesterday, smoke was seen rising from behind the Capitol after a fire in a homeless encampment.
Video showed people leaving the building’s West Front as an evacuation warning played.
Capitol staff were sent text messages telling them to stay away from windows as the building was locked down.
The chaotic scenes came after fears of an attack from inside the ranks of the 25,000 National Guard troops guarding Joe Biden’s swearing-in ceremony had already led the FBI to vet every soldier.
Pentagon officials ordered the move after intelligence suggested US military members loyal to Donald Trump could pose a threat to the incoming president and other VIPs at tomorrow’s event.
Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said: “We’re continually going through the process, and taking second, third looks at every one of the individuals assigned
TENSION Our man Chris next to cordon to this operation. The question is, is that all of them? We need to thoroughly vet these men and women.”
Already one Army reservist with security clearance has been arrested over his alleged part in the storming of the Capitol on January 6. Timothy HaleCusanelli, 30, of New Jersey, was described in court papers as a “white supremacist and Nazi sympathiser” who “encouraged” other rioters.
At least 22 current or former members of the US military or law enforcement have been identified as being at or near the scene. More than a dozen others are under investigation.
There is some evidence rioters were supported by Capitol police, troops and even some members of Congress.
Some had driven to Washington days before the riot, heavily armed.
The president, who continues to push baseless claims the November election was “stolen” from him and who is accused of inciting the Capitol riot, will not attend Biden’s inauguration.
He will instead hold a farewell ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Pentagon officials refused Trump’s request to put on a military parade. Before leaving office he is expected to grant up to 100 pardons and commutations, though not to himself.