FBI Director Kash Patel has criticized former FBI Director Christopher Wray for misleading Congress about the agency’s involvement during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, revealing that nearly 300 plainclothes agents were deployed to manage crowds after the violence began. Patel stated the presence of these agents violated FBI standards, as their role was not intended for crowd control.

According to Patel, the agents were sent into the Capitol complex following a declaration of a “riot” by Metro Police. He accused Wray of failing to disclose this information during congressional testimony, calling it a failure of leadership that “lied to Congress and to the American people.” Patel emphasized the FBI’s commitment to transparency, stating, “Justice and accountability continues with this FBI.”

The revelation emerged after reports indicated 274 plainclothes agents were at the scene. An FBI official confirmed no agents were involved in events related to former President Donald Trump’s speech on the Ellipse that day. Patel reiterated that Wray should have addressed the agents’ presence when questioned by lawmakers.

Trump publicly criticized the FBI, demanding a “full, real investigation” into the matter. He accused Wray of lying under oath and called for accountability, stating, “Christopher Wray needs to be indicted, too.” The former president also referenced past controversies involving former FBI Director James Comey, who was later indicted.

The controversy has sparked debates over agency protocols and the integrity of official testimony during the Capitol events.