The Federal Bureau of Investigation on Friday ordered the transfer of 1,500 staff out of its Washington headquarters, two sources familiar with the orders told Reuters.

The message came as newly confirmed director Kash Patel told employees that bolstering field office personnel across the country was a top priority.

The FBI told managers that 1,500 personnel will be transferred from the headquarters near Washington headquarters to offices around the country, including around a third being placed in an Alabama office,