Former FBI Director James Comey is under investigation for a social media post that some US officials perceive as a threat against President Donald Trump. The post featured a photo of seashells arranged to resemble the numbers 86 47, with Comey innocuously captioning it as a “Cool shell formation on my beach walk.” The numbers 86 and 47 have specific meanings in American slang, with 86 commonly used to signify removal or even killing, and 47 representing Trump as the 47th US president.

Comey later removed the post, clarifying that he did not intend any violent connotations with the numbers and professing his opposition to all forms of violence. The Secret Service and FBI are both aware of the post, with investigations underway to address any potential threats to the president’s safety. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem affirmed that the agencies are taking the matter seriously and will respond appropriately.

The controversy surrounding the post has elicited strong reactions, with Donald Trump Jr. accusing Comey of insinuating his father’s murder. White House officials expressed deep concern over the perceived threat, with one calling it a potential incitement to harm the president. The contentious history between Trump and Comey adds complexity to the situation, as Comey was previously fired by Trump for mishandling an investigation related to Hillary Clinton. Moreover, during Comey’s tenure at the FBI, the agency conducted an inquiry into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia during the 2016 election.

The investigation into Comey’s post underscores the heightened sensitivity surrounding political discourse and the imperative to ensure the safety and security of public officials.