Informed sources reported that the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has reduced the number of staff in its domestic counterterrorism unit, transferring approximately 16 members to other departments.

This unit is responsible for overseeing investigations across 55 field offices and gathering intelligence on domestic threats, typically employing hundreds of personnel. According to the sources, discussions have even been held about the possibility of dissolving the unit entirely, which could impact the FBI's ability to track extremist groups and armed opposition.

Some observers believe these changes reflect a shift in the FBI's priorities, particularly following the appointment of Kash Patel as its new director. Patel is thought to place less emphasis on domestic counterterrorism. An internal memo indicates that President Donald Trump's administration directed counterterrorism officers to support efforts against illegal immigration.

Kash Patel, who assumed the position in February, is known to be a close ally of Trump and has claimed that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him. Patel has also called for restructuring the FBI and the Department of Justice.

Source: Reuters.