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On June 20, New York City U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents successfully apprehended 27-year-old Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, a known member of the notorious MS-13 gang. This Salvadoran national had an Interpol Red Notice issued against him for two counts of aggravated homicide in El Salvador.

Illegal Entry and Arrest

Hernandez Villanueva was taken into custody in Queens, where authorities found him in possession of marijuana and a loaded handgun. It was revealed that he had illegally entered the United States at an undisclosed time and location. His erroneous belief that he could escape justice in El Salvador by seeking refuge in New York City has been proven wrong by his arrest.

International Efforts

Kenneth Genalo, the ERO New York City Field Office Director, expressed gratitude for the collaboration between immigration officers and other law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safe capture and removal of Hernandez Villanueva. He reaffirmed their commitment to repatriating international fugitives, allowing them to face justice in their home countries.

Legal Pursuit and Collaboration

Salvadoran authorities originally issued an arrest warrant for Hernandez Villanueva back in March 2019. The FBI later provided crucial information related to his Interpol Red Notice to ERO New York City’s Long Island officers on October 12, 2023. Such collaboration highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies in tracking down and apprehending individuals evading justice.

FBI's Commitment

Christie M. Curtis, the acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's New York Field Office, emphasized that the arrest of Hernandez Villanueva reflects the FBI’s unwavering commitment to capturing fugitives and eliminating dangerous criminals from local communities. The FBI, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, remains resolute in its pursuit of justice.