In a major victory for international law enforcement, authorities extradited Francisco Javier Román-Bardales, a suspected MS-13 leader, from Mexico to the United States. Once on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, Román-Bardales faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit racketeering and narco-terrorism.
Detention and Extradition
Román-Bardales was taken into custody by Mexican authorities on Monday in Veracruz along the Teocelo-Baxtla route. Mexico’s Defense Ministry, Navy, Attorney General’s Office, National Guard, and Secretariat of Security and Civilian Protection worked together on the operation.
Román-Bardales was quickly extradited to the United States after his arrest, where he will face charges of leading MS-13 operations throughout North America.
The accusations made against Román-Bardales
In addition to overseeing the gang’s networks for extortion and drug delivery, the FBI claims that Román-Bardales was instrumental in directing violent crimes against citizens and other gangs. He is accused of conspiring to give terrorists material assistance while hiding it.
- Conspiracy including narco-terrorism
- conspiracy including racketeering
- plot involving alien smuggling
The Criminal Scope of MS-13
The MS-13 gang is a global criminal organization that has its roots in Los Angeles. The gang expanded throughout Central America, especially in El Salvador, after members faced deportation. Known for its extreme violence, MS-13 ranks among the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations.
The U.S. State Department formally classified MS-13 as a foreign terrorist group in February. The group has carried out violent crimes against El Salvadorian government leaders, including assassinations and the use of drones and IEDs.
U.S.-Mexico Cooperation
Román-Bardales’ extradition follows recent high-profile handovers of 29 cartel members from Mexico to the U.S., including infamous drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero. This cooperative effort marks a significant step in combating transnational crime.
FBI Director Kash Patel expressed gratitude to Mexican officials, calling the arrest a “major victory for law enforcement and a safer America.”
Source: USA Today