According to officials, an MS-13 gang member wanted for murder in El Salvador was caught by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in New York City after unlawfully entering the country as a getaway.
On June 20, ICE deportation authorities in New York City arrested Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, 27.
According to officials, Hernandez Villanueva is a Salvadoran MS-13 gang member wanted by Interpol on two counts of aggravated homicide in El Salvador.
He was detained in Queens and was carrying marijuana and a loaded firearm, according to investigators.
Officials stated that he illegally entered the United States at an unknown time and location.
“This violent criminal and MS-13 gang member erroneously thought he could escape murder charges in El Salvador by sneaking into the United States and hiding out in New York City,” stated ERO New York City Field Office Director Kenneth Genalo. “We will apprehend these international fugitives and return them to their countries of origin to face justice.” I appreciate my officers’ heroic efforts and superb coordination in safely removing this dangerous individual from the neighborhood.”
Salvadoran authorities issued an arrest warrant for Hernandez Villanueva on March 28, 2019.
On October 12, 2023, the FBI notified ERO New York City’s Long Island officers with information about Hernandez Villanueva’s Interpol Red Notice.
“One cannot get away with murder, even when attempting to flee and hide in another country,” stated Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, an MS-13 gang member, is accused of unlawfully living in our city to elude El Salvadorian police and avoid reprisal for suspected murder allegations. With the help of our law enforcement partners. This arrest demonstrates the FBI’s dedication to apprehending fugitives and removing dangerous individuals from our communities.”
Source: Fox News