In a stunning operation that has sent shockwaves through one of America’s most dangerous criminal organizations, federal authorities have captured a top MS-13 leader in Virginia. The 24-year-old illegal immigrant from El Salvador, described as “the worst of the worst,” was among the three highest-ranking MS-13 leaders on the East Coast.
At a glance:
• A top MS-13 gang leader was arrested in Woodbridge, Virginia, by federal and local authorities
• The suspect is a 24-year-old illegal immigrant from El Salvador, ranked among the top three MS-13 leaders on the East Coast
• The operation was a joint effort between the FBI, ICE, ATF, Virginia State Police, and Prince William County Police
• Attorney General Pamela Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel personally observed and praised the operation
• The arrest is part of a larger initiative that has resulted in 342 arrests of violent gang members since March 3
Major Victory Against Violent MS-13 Gang
Federal authorities have scored a significant victory in the fight against criminal gangs with the arrest of a high-ranking MS-13 leader in Northern Virginia. The operation occurred in the Dale City area of Woodbridge and involved the cooperation of multiple law enforcement agencies.
The suspect, a 24-year-old illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was identified as one of the top three leaders of the notorious MS-13 gang on the East Coast. According to officials, the individual was recruited into the gang at a young age and is linked to numerous violent crimes throughout the region.
The arrest was part of a broader initiative launched on March 3 targeting violent gang offenders in the Eastern District of Virginia. The operation has already resulted in 342 separate arrests.
Trump Administration Officials Celebrate Success
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the significance of the arrest during a subsequent press conference. “They [MS-13 gang] are one of the most dangerous gangs in our country, and we are going to fight until they are completely dismantled,” she said.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the operation as “a massive victory for a safer America.” The coordinated effort involved federal, state, and local partners, including the FBI, ICE, ATF, Virginia State Police, and Prince William County Police Department.
President Trump acknowledged the successful operation in a Truth Social post, writing, “Great job by Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, Tom HOMAN, and Kristi N, on the capture of MS13 leader – A big deal!” The President consistently prioritized targeting MS-13 throughout both of his terms.
Cracking Down on Illegal Immigration and Gang Violence
Interim U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert confirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to continuing these operations, stating, “We don’t plan on stopping until all of these violent gang members are off of the streets.” The FBI has recently seen additional success in its most wanted program, arresting three individuals from its top 10 most wanted list in recent operations.
FBI Director Patel summed up the operation’s success by stating, “This is what can happen when you put good cops in good places to take on bad guys. And America should be watching this.”
MS-13, formally known as Mara Salvatrucha, was founded in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants and has grown into one of the most feared transnational criminal organizations. The gang has been responsible for numerous high-profile crimes including killings, kidnappings, and drug trafficking across the United States and Central America.
