Top MS-13 gang leader captured in Virginia raid
Alona Yadav | Mar 28, 2025, 00:07 IST
( Image credit : AP )
Federal and state authorities have arrested a top MS-13 leader in northern Virginia, significantly disrupting the notorious gang's criminal activities. This high-level arrest involved numerous law enforcement agencies and is viewed as a significant success for public safety efforts.
In a significant law enforcement operation, federal and state authorities have arrested a top-tier MS-13 gang member in northern Virginia, marking a decisive blow against one of the most notorious criminal organizations in the United States.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the successful operation early Thursday morning, emphasizing the collaborative effort of multiple agencies. "America is safer today," Bondi declared at a press conference, highlighting the arrest of a 24-year-old allegedly ranked among the top three MS-13 leaders.
The raid, which took place in a residential neighborhood, involved FBI officials, including Director Kash Patel, and numerous law enforcement personnel. While the specific identity of the arrested individual remains undisclosed, officials described him as a "domestic terrorist" responsible for significant criminal activities.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized the arrest as a "big win" for American communities, noting the operation's complexity. "This was a very violent individual who was picked up in a home with five children present," Leavitt told reporters, underscoring the potential danger averted.
President Donald Trump celebrated the arrest on his social media platform, praising Tom Homan, his former "border czar," as a "superstar" for his contributions to border security and gang prevention efforts.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin also participated in the press conference, supporting the narrative of increased public safety through aggressive law enforcement strategies.
The operation demonstrates a continued commitment to dismantling transnational criminal networks and protecting communities from gang-related violence.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the successful operation early Thursday morning, emphasizing the collaborative effort of multiple agencies. "America is safer today," Bondi declared at a press conference, highlighting the arrest of a 24-year-old allegedly ranked among the top three MS-13 leaders.
The raid, which took place in a residential neighborhood, involved FBI officials, including Director Kash Patel, and numerous law enforcement personnel. While the specific identity of the arrested individual remains undisclosed, officials described him as a "domestic terrorist" responsible for significant criminal activities.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized the arrest as a "big win" for American communities, noting the operation's complexity. "This was a very violent individual who was picked up in a home with five children present," Leavitt told reporters, underscoring the potential danger averted.
President Donald Trump celebrated the arrest on his social media platform, praising Tom Homan, his former "border czar," as a "superstar" for his contributions to border security and gang prevention efforts.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin also participated in the press conference, supporting the narrative of increased public safety through aggressive law enforcement strategies.
The operation demonstrates a continued commitment to dismantling transnational criminal networks and protecting communities from gang-related violence.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.