FBI and Mexican Authorities Collaborate to Arrest MS-13 Leader

FBI arrests MS-13 leader Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales in Mexico with support from Mexican authorities. The arrest, described as a significant achievement by FBI Director Kash Patel, addresses serious charges related to violence and drug trafficking. This incident reflects ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to tackle gang violence in the United States.

The FBI successfully extradited Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, a senior leader of the MS-13 gang, with the cooperation of the Mexican government. FBI Director Kash Patel hailed the arrest as a significant achievement. Roman-Bardales was apprehended in Mexico and is now being transported to the United States to face multiple charges, including ordering violent acts and engagement in drug distribution and extortion schemes.

A federal warrant was issued for Roman-Bardales in a New York court in 2022, leading to charges of conspiracy related to terrorism support, narco-terrorism, racketeering, and alien smuggling. Mexican authorities acted upon intelligence regarding his whereabouts in Baxtla, resulting in his identification and arrest.

Director Patel expressed gratitude towards Mexican law enforcement for their contribution, highlighting that this collaboration enhances the safety of American communities. The arrest aligns with ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to combat gangs such as MS-13, which includes recent deportations of over 200 alleged gang members to El Salvador.

During a recent address, President Trump emphasized the severity of gang violence, referencing the murders of US citizens linked to criminal organizations. He condemned MS-13 and similar entities, even classifying them as foreign terrorist organizations, which is intended to intensify enforcement and deportations of violent criminal gang members from the U.S.

The successful arrest of Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales marks a critical collaboration between the FBI and Mexican authorities aimed at enhancing safety in American communities. Roman-Bardales faces serious charges, affirming the urgency of combating gang violence that has been a priority for the current administration. This arrest underscores the ongoing international efforts to address and neutralize dangerous criminal organizations.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com