In a major breakthrough following a six-month investigation, the New York Police Department (NYPD) conducted a raid in Astoria, leading to the discovery of a cache of homemade explosive devices and guns. Two brothers, Andrew Hatziagelis, 39, and Angelo Hatziagelis, 51, have been indicted on 130 counts in connection with the findings.

During a news conference, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the significance of the seizure and assured the public that the city is safer as a result. She clarified that the brothers do not appear to be associated with any terrorist network or criminal organization.

Inside the Astoria apartment, investigators found a staggering array of weapons and explosives. The collection included eight functional improvised explosive devices (IEDs), one partially constructed tripwire IED, nine smoke bombs, and a cache of ammunition. Additionally, the authorities seized two loaded AR-15 style ghost guns with detachable magazines, two loaded 9mm ghost gun pistols, and a 3D printer that had been used to create two 9mm pistols. Among the confiscated items were three sets of body armor and equipment for manufacturing more weapons.

Katz highlighted the discovery of a police scanner set to the frequency of the NYPD's 114th precinct, indicating that the brothers were actively seeking information. Furthermore, she noted the advanced level of sophistication involved in the homemade explosives, pointing specifically to the intricacy of the tripwire.

Throughout the investigation, NYPD's counterterrorism bureau relied on innovative analytical techniques and meticulous detective work to track the illegal acquisition of ghost guns. The deputy commissioner, Rebecca Weiner, commended the team's intelligence-led approach.

In addition to the weapons cache, investigators found recipes for dangerous substances, including napalm, thermite grenades, fertilizer bombs, black powder, and Molotov cocktails. It remains uncertain what the brothers intended to do with these materials.

NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban warned of the potential devastation that the discovered supplies could have caused, describing them as capable of inflicting "horrendous carnage."

The Hatziagelis brothers are scheduled to appear in court on February 15. If convicted, they each face a maximum of 25 years in prison, according to Katz.

The news conference concluded with Katz affirming the NYPD's commitment to tackling the proliferation of ghost guns, while refraining from providing details on the origins of the investigation or the brothers' motives.

The raid and subsequent indictment signify a significant victory for law enforcement, as efforts to ensure public safety continue to be prioritized in the fight against illegal weapons and explosives.