The FBI successfully extradited Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, 47, thought to be a key leader of the MS-13 terrorist gang, on Monday night, marking the third member of the FBI’s ten most wanted fugitives list apprehended under President Donald Trump.
“He was arrested in Mexico and is being transported within the U.S. as we speak, where he will face American justice. This is a major victory both for our law enforcement partners and for a safer America,” said FBI director Kash Patel on X.
The White House also released a statement celebrating the arrest.
“Under President Donald J. Trump, the message to criminals who bring harm and destruction to our communities is simple: you will be found, and you will face justice,” said the press release.
Roman-Bardales was arrested in Veracruz, Mexico, on the Teocelo-Baxtla highway as part of a cooperative effort between Mexican and U.S. authorities. He was transported to Mexico City immediately after arrest, while awaiting extradition.
According to the FBI, Roman Bardales played a pivotal role in directing MS-13’s activities in the U.S. (where the gang was founded), Mexico, and his native country of El Salvador.
A New York court first issued his arrest warrant in 2022 for conspiracy to provide and conceal material support and resources to terrorists, narco-terrorism conspiracy, racketeering conspiracy, and alien smuggling conspiracy.
He was also charged for his alleged role in the murders of multiple civilians and rival gang members.
The two other members of the FBI’s Most Wanted List have also been arrested since President Trump took office two months ago.
On January 25, authorities discovered Donald Eugene Fields II in the St. Louis metropolitan area and took him into custody, where he faces charges for sex trafficking a minor and child sexual abuse.
On January 30, Mexican authorities apprehended Arnoldo Jimenez, a Texas native charged with the alleged murder of his wife in 2012, just one day after their wedding.
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