In a sweeping victory for international law enforcement, Francisco Javier Román-Bardales, the alleged leader of the notorious MS-13 gang, was apprehended in Veracruz, Mexico. Román-Bardales, who hails from El Salvador, was listed among the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives due to his involvement in directing criminal activities across the United States, Mexico, and El Salvador. A substantial $250,000 reward had been offered for information leading to his arrest.
MS-13, a criminal group originally founded in Los Angeles, was designated as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration. This designation has sparked debates among officials about the potential for direct US strikes against such groups. Román-Bardales stands accused of ordering numerous criminal activities and has been charged with various crimes in the US. The charges include conspiracy to provide and conceal material support to terrorists, narco-terrorist conspiracy, racketeering conspiracy, and conspiracy to traffic aliens.
"Numerous acts of violence against civilians and rival gang members, as well as his role in drug distribution and extortion schemes in the United States and El Salvador," were attributed to Román-Bardales, according to the FBI.
The arrest was announced through a joint statement from the Attorney General, the Ministry of National Defense, and the National Guard. The statement detailed that Román-Bardales was informed of his rights and the reasons for his arrest. He is expected to be transferred to Mexico City before being deported to the United States to face charges.
"He was informed of the reason for his arrest, his legal rights were read to him, and he will be transferred to Mexico City, before the corresponding authority, and subsequently deported to the United States, where he is wanted," read the joint statement.
The capture of Román-Bardales is a significant blow to MS-13's operations. The gang has long been involved in violent and illicit activities across North and Central America. The group's designation as a terrorist organization underscores its role in perpetuating widespread violence and criminal enterprises.
