ICE Homeland Security Investigations unit made a significant arrest in Nebraska on Wednesday, capturing an alleged MS-13 kingpin who is on El Salvador’s “Top 100 Most Wanted” list. The kingpin, wanted for multiple serious crimes including aggravated homicide, attempted aggravated homicide, deprivation of liberty, and terrorist organization affiliation, remains unnamed by authorities at this time.
Mark Zito, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge of Kansas City, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “These illegal aliens didn’t just sneak into our country, they brought with them a legacy of violence, terror, and death. They thought they could hide in America’s heartland, but they were sadly mistaken, not on our watch.”
Additionally, an alleged MS-13 gang member and foreign terrorist associate, wanted in El Salvador for giving orders to commit crimes such as murder and drug trafficking, was also apprehended during the targeted enforcement action in Omaha. Both individuals were living illegally in the U.S., posing a serious threat to the area.
The arrests were conducted by ICE and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as part of a joint effort to combat gang violence and criminal activities. ICE acting Director Todd M. Lyons emphasized the importance of public support and caution during such operations, urging individuals not to interfere and potentially put themselves in harm’s way.
Video footage of the arrest shows one of the suspects complying with agents’ instructions, highlighting the seamless execution of the operation without incident. The arrest serves as a reminder of ICE’s ongoing efforts to target individuals with criminal charges and convictions, ensuring the safety and security of communities across the country.
As ICE continues its enforcement operations nationwide, the agency remains vigilant in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in gang-related activities and other criminal behavior. The recent arrest of the MS-13 kingpin and associate underscores the dedication of law enforcement agencies to safeguarding the public from violent threats and ensuring justice is served.
