U.S. authorities have arrested a top MS-13 gang leader in a major operation in Virginia. The 24-year-old suspect, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was captured near Dale City in Prince William County on Thursday (March 27). This operation, backed by President Donald Trump, involved the FBI, ICE, ATF, the Virginia State Police, and the Prince William County Police Department. The suspect is considered one of the top three MS-13 leaders in the United States.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest, emphasizing its significance in enhancing national safety. "Thanks to the FBI, we got one of the worst of the worst of the MS-13 off the streets this morning," Bondi said. FBI Director Kash Patel praised the law enforcement officers for their effective operation, stating, "This is what can happen when you put good cops in good places to take on bad guys."
President Trump also commended the operation on social media, highlighting its success in capturing a high-ranking gang member. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to target top-level gang members and drug-trafficking rings in the U.S. Over 340 criminals have been arrested in the past month as part of this initiative.
The suspect's arrest marks a significant step in the fight against gang violence and is expected to lead to further actions against MS-13 members. The operation underscores the administration's commitment to ensuring public safety and combating organized crime in the United States.