Two linked to al-Qaida arrested in NYC plot

NEW YORK (AP) — Two men linked to an alleged al-Qaida associate accused of a plot to attack New York City with homemade bombs were arrested Friday after one of the men caused a traffic accident while under surveillance.

Zarein Ahmedzay pleaded not guilty to a false statement charge in an indictment accusing him of lying to the FBI about a trip to Pakistan and Afghanistan. The other suspect, Adis Medunjanin, remained in custody, and it was unclear when he would appear in court.

Two law enforcement officials familiar with the case said earlier Friday that Medunjanin was facing possible charges of providing material support to terrorism. The officials were not authorized to discuss the case and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

During a brief appearance in federal court in Brooklyn, Ahmedzay, 24, was ordered held without bail.