In a significant development on June 20, Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva, a fugitive and alleged MS-13 gang member wanted for murder in El Salvador, was apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in New York City.
This arrest marks a crucial step in a lengthy pursuit involving multiple international law enforcement agencies.
The Salvadoran authorities issued an arrest warrant for Hernandez Villanueva on March 28, 2019, following serious allegations of murder.
The pursuit escalated when Interpol issued a Red Notice on October 2, 2023, indicating that Hernandez was wanted by authorities in El Salvador for these charges.
The FBI played a pivotal role in this international manhunt, providing crucial information to ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) New York City’s Long Island officers on October 12, 2023, about Hernandez’s status on the Interpol Red Notice.
Christie M. Curtis, acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI New York Field Office, underscored the significance of this arrest.
She stated, “One cannot get away with murder, even when attempting to flee and hide in another country.”
Curtis highlighted the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in capturing Hernandez Villanueva, who had been living illegally in New York City, allegedly to evade the authorities in El Salvador and avoid facing charges for his alleged crimes.
This arrest reflects not only the commitment of the FBI but also the broader dedication of U.S. law enforcement to uphold justice, even across international borders.
It sends a strong message that fugitives who attempt to escape their legal responsibilities will be pursued diligently and brought to justice, thereby enhancing the safety and security of communities.
The successful capture of Hernandez Villanueva is a testament to the effectiveness of international cooperation among law enforcement agencies and serves as a warning to other fugitives that criminal activities do not go unnoticed, and justice has a long reach.
