Top MS-13 Leader Arrested in Virginia in Major Law Enforcement Operation

The 24-year-old suspect, one of the top three MS-13 leaders in the U.S. and head of East Coast operations, was apprehended in a coordinated federal, state, and local effort.

Federal authorities arrested a 24-year-old MS-13 leader in Woodbridge, Virginia, describing him as one of the top three gang leaders in the U.S.
The suspect, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was overseeing the gang's violent East Coast operations and is now in custody.
The operation involved collaboration between the FBI, ICE, ATF, Virginia State Police, and local law enforcement, ensuring a safe and effective arrest.
MS-13 was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the Trump administration in January 2025, enabling enhanced enforcement measures against the gang.
Officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, hailed the arrest as a significant victory in dismantling MS-13 and enhancing public safety.