Mexican authorities have arrested Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, a 47-year-old alleged leader of the notorious MS-13 criminal organization. He was on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list and was taken into custody on the Teocelo-Baxtla highway. The arrest was a result of a joint operation involving multiple Mexican law enforcement agencies, including the Defense Ministry, Navy, Attorney General’s Office, National Guard, and the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection.
Authorities Capture Roman-Bardales in Veracruz Amid Ongoing Crackdown on Organized Crime
Following his arrest, Roman-Bardales was informed of his legal rights and the charges against him. Mexican authorities confirmed that he would be transferred to Mexico City to appear before relevant authorities before extradition to the United States. The U.S. has been actively seeking his arrest due to his alleged role in organized crime activities, particularly drug trafficking, terrorism-related offenses, and human smuggling.
Mexican Authorities Arrest MS-13 Leader Roman-Bardales in Coordinated Law Enforcement OperationAuthorities located Roman-Bardales in Baxtla, Veracruz, where he had been operating. Law enforcement agencies conducted extensive surveillance, including both fixed and mobile monitoring, to track his movements. This intelligence-gathering effort ultimately led to his capture on the highway. Officials emphasized that the arrest was part of ongoing national security efforts to combat organized crime and reduce violence.
Roman-Bardales’ Capture Marks Major Victory Against Transnational Organized Crime and Terrorism
Originally from El Salvador, Roman-Bardales has been identified as a high-ranking member of MS-13 for many years. A September 22, 2022, indictment charged him and 12 others with serious crimes, including conspiracy to support terrorists, narco-terrorism, racketeering, and human smuggling. U.S. authorities have accused him of coordinating MS-13 activities in the United States and directing criminal operations. His capture marks a significant development in the international fight against transnational organized crime.
Roman-Bardales’ arrest comes as Mexico intensifies its law enforcement operations against drug cartels and criminal organizations. Under pressure from the U.S. government, particularly during the Trump administration, Mexico has increased efforts to curb drug trafficking and illegal immigration. Last month, Mexican authorities transferred 29 cartel suspects to the U.S., further showcasing the collaborative approach between the two nations in tackling organized crime.