Francisco Javier Román-Bardales, an alleged senior MS-13 leader and one of Trump’s FBI “Ten Most Wanted,” has been arrested with the help of the Mexican government, FBI Director Kash Patel announced.
Román-Bardales is being extradited to the United States. He is accused of ordering acts of violence against civilians and rival gang members, as well as running drug distribution and extortion operations in the U.S. and El Salvador.
On X, Patel called the arrest “a major victory” for law enforcement and public safety.
Mexican authorities identified the 47-year-old, known as “Veterano de Tribus,” informed him of his rights, and prepared to transfer him to Mexico City for processing before his deportation to the U.S.
According to CNN, he faces charges of conspiracy to provide and conceal material support to terrorists, narco-terrorist conspiracy, racketeering conspiracy, and conspiracy to traffic aliens.
MS-13, founded in Los Angeles, was labeled a terrorist organization by the Trump administration. Some officials argue that such designations could justify direct U.S. action against cartels and drug production in Mexico.
The arrest is one of several high-profile captures under Trump. On January 30, 2025, fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez, wanted for first-degree murder, was arrested. On January 25, Donald Eugene Fields II, suspected of child rape and trafficking, was also taken into custody.
Since 2009, the Eastern District of New York has prosecuted hundreds of MS-13 members tied to over 80 murders. The gang’s profits from drug trafficking have fueled violent operations in El Salvador.
