An Evil-Doer Arrested after Failed Attempt of Explosion

The Transportation Security Administration is enhancing security at airports around the country after a senior U.S. counterterrorism official said someone tried, but failed to blow up a Delta/Northwest Airlines Flight 253 passenger plane.

Photo: An Evil-Doer Arrested after Failed Attempt of Explosion

U.S officials say the passenger, Abdul Mudallad, a Nigerian citizen in his 20s, claims he was acting on behalf of Al-Qaeda when he tried to blow up a flight Friday as it landed in Detroit from Amsterdam.

Right now the White House is considering the attempted bombing an act of terrorism.

One of the U.S. intelligence officials said the explosive device was a mix of powder and liquid. It failed when the passenger tried to detonate it.

Bomb squads swept the plane for explosives, but so far just how Mudallad managed to get this explosive mix on board hasn't been figured out.

The attempted attack has put OIA and airports across the country on high alert. The TSA won't go into details as to what they will be doing but already travelers at OIA are seeing more security

"They caught me with a tube of toothpaste and made me throw it away.  So I mean taking off your shoes, going through your bag, I can honestly say they have been doing a real good job," Poche said.  "Yes there is a lot more security.  There is somebody posted about every 5 to 10 feet."

Mudallad is being treated for burns at a local hospital. Investigators plan to interview him and learn more about his intentions and his possible terrorist ties.

The FBI is in charge of the investigation, which is continuing.

Central Florida News has contributed to the report.