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Feds bust two men linked to Ferguson bomb plot

Missouri pair bought explosives they planned to used in pipe bombs, say federal authorities.

By Mary Papenfuss
Police detain a demonstrator protesting the shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown Thursday night in Ferguson, Missouri. Tensions are high in Ferguson as a grand jury is expected to announce its findings in Brown's death at the hands of police officer Darren Wilson (UPI/Lawrence Bryant).
Police detain a demonstrator protesting the shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown Thursday night in Ferguson, Missouri. Tensions are high in Ferguson as a grand jury is expected to announce its findings in Brown's death at the hands of police officer Darren Wilson (UPI/Lawrence Bryant). | License Photo

FERGUSON, Mo., Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Two men have been arrested in Missouri after they allegedly purchased explosives to use in pipe bombs they intended to use in protests in Ferguson, said federal law enforcement authorities.

St. Louis area residents Brandon Orlando Baldwin and Olajuwon Davis were arrested Friday after authorities said they made false statements while purchasing two guns — Hi-Point .45 ACP pistols — at a sporting goods store in Missouri.

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The men weren't arrested immediately after the gun purchases, but were watched by FBI agents, and they purchased the explosives as part of a sting operation, according to investigative sources.

The two are being held on gun charges, but officials say other charges are pending.

The men claim to be affiliated with the militant group the New Black Panther Party, but don't seem to represent a major threat, one source told NBC.

Authorities are preparing for protest fallout once the Ferguson grand jury announces its decision on whether or not to charge Police Officer Darren Wilson with a crime. Wilson fatally shot black teenager Michael Brown in August.

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Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency earlier this week in order to activate the National Guard to help police in the event of violent demonstrations — a move that displeased Attorney General Eric Holder, who views it as an escalation of local tensions.

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