Mexican authorities have successfully apprehended Francisco Javier Román-Bardales, a prominent figure in the notorious MS-13 gang, who had been on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. The arrest took place on the Teocelo-Baxtla highway in Veracruz, as confirmed by a joint statement issued by the Attorney General’s Office, the Ministry of National Defense, and the National Guard.
Román-Bardales, who is originally from El Salvador, is alleged to have played a significant role in coordinating MS-13 activities across the United States, Mexico, and El Salvador. Authorities informed him of the charges against him and ensured that his legal rights were observed during the arrest. He is expected to be transferred to Mexico City before being deported to the United States to face trial.
The FBI has accused Román-Bardales of orchestrating a series of violent acts, including attacks on civilians and rival gang members. His alleged criminal involvement spans across several illicit operations, including drug trafficking and extortion in both the United States and El Salvador. He is also charged with several conspiracy counts, including providing material support to terrorists, narco-terrorist conspiracy, racketeering, and conspiracy to traffic aliens.
The U.S. government had offered a $250,000 reward for any information leading to his capture. MS-13, a gang that originated in Los Angeles, has been labeled as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration due to its violent and extensive criminal activities.
