A startling development has emerged in the hunt for the individual who planted pipe bombs near major political party buildings just before the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol unrest.

The FBI has released new surveillance footage, heightening speculation and raising new questions about the suspect's identity -- and possibly gender -- and bringing to light significant lapses in federal security measures, as the Daily Mail reports. 

Despite extensive efforts, the suspect remains at large, with the FBI continuing to refer to this person using gender-neutral terms.

The newly released video depicts a suspect standing approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, seen wearing a white hoodie, dark pants, gloves, and a mask, which effectively conceal any distinguishing features including gender.

Investigators have not confirmed a motive, nor have they disclosed any connections to the events of Jan. 6.

Security Failures Criticized in Recent Report

The recent report from the House Administration Committee has revealed numerous security oversights and failures by federal agencies related to this case. Notably, it underscores how these agencies were unable to detect the explosive devices before the chaos at the Capitol the next day.

According to the report, security perimeters were inadequate, with federal agents failing to restrict access to pivotal political points effectively. On Jan. 6, a bystander eventually discovered the explosive device near the Republican Party’s Capitol Hill Club, shedding light on the agencies' lack of alertness.

Conspicuously, various federal agents permitted vehicle and pedestrian traffic to move perilously close to the areas where these devices were located. This oversight highlighted a critical lapse in ensuring the safety of numerous public and political figures.

Ongoing Investigation and Absence of Arrests

The investigation has yet to yield suspects or arrests, frustrating many involved in unraveling these complex events. Congressman Barry Loudermilk has pointed out flaws in previous investigations, emphasizing the lack of accountability. He contends that the American public is owed greater transparency over these security failures.

David Sundberg, an FBI official, emphasized the investigative challenges faced without knowing the suspect’s identity. "Without being able to confirm the suspect's identity, it is very hard to definitively establish motive," he stated, highlighting the difficulty investigators face.

Despite the enormity of the investigation, the FBI remains unresolved about any direct link between the suspect’s actions on Jan. 5 and the insurrection that followed a day later. "Therefore, it would be difficult for us to state that there is a link, although we can’t state there is not one," noted Sundberg.

Congressional Pressure and Future Steps

The unveiling of the report has amplified calls for more comprehensive scrutiny into the federal response to this dramatic episode. Loudermilk criticized the earlier investigative efforts led by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and then-Rep. Liz Cheney, pointing out several critical oversights that went unaddressed.

He stressed that despite extensive analysis, some crucial details have not been disclosed by the FBI, which could potentially harbor significant leads. The congressman demanded that the full truth be uncovered for the American people.

In examining the incidents, the report included timelines and images aiming to provide a visual representation of the sequence of discoveries and federal responses. Yet, due to non-disclosure restrictions, certain investigative leads remain concealed from the public lens.

Resources Diverted Amid Critical Moments

Amid these ongoing discoveries, the report further revealed how security personnel were at times misallocated during critical moments of the investigation. As attention diverted towards the tumult at the Capitol, essential resources meant for detecting such threats were redirected.

This mismanagement has provoked criticism, with voices like Loudermilk's demanding accountability and corrective measures. As a result, many senators and representatives echo the demand for thoroughgoing answers that reinforce public trust.

As the investigation persists, the mystery of the identity and intentions behind the January 5 pipe bombings continues to loom over national security discourse. While the FBI endeavors to solve this case, the nation remains observant, tuning into every development in search for clarity.

Looking forward, federal agencies are likely to face heightened scrutiny over their preparedness and response to threats posed by unidentified assailants, driving legislative and procedural changes. As a moment of reflection, this episode marks a pivotal point in assessing and enhancing national security frameworks.