Based on open sources, NSA has a fleet of about 100 vehicles at most in CONUS, so they would be more likely to fly vehicles cross-country if DIRNSA needed to use a fleet vehicle. Having said that, NSA doesn't just arbitrarily get involved in domestic law enforcement cases, even ones involving crypto, so let's wait to see if there's more evidence than a random HN post to support this allegation.

This is a completely fair comment and my source certainly isn't fully aware of the situation...they just relayed what they saw out the window and some discussion among staff. I wanted to make sure this information was recorded for posterity at the time it happened in the (unlikely) event Tim Cook was taken away in hand-cuffs or something similarly dramatic were to happen. I'm hoping someone from Apple feels brave enough to confirm the events here on HN. Ideally with a few pictures showing the motorcade. I doubt Apple PR will comment.

Did your source take anyone photos of the event with their phone?

^ the HN translation of "pics or it didn't happen"

Honestly, I didn't feel at liberty to ask and none were volunteered. I've been hoping someone from Apple would pick up on this thread and post them here.

Are these the vehicles in the convoy to Apple you were describing?

https://twitter.com/Honeybeast/status/700116621952552961

My knowledge of vehicle types is subpar.

No, those are all Ford. First three are Transit vans, then an Explorer and a Crown Vic.

Yeah, I would expect only FBI to be involved with this. Especially when meeting in-person.

At least one car had MD plates. I don't think the source could see all of them clearly enough to make them all out.