ICE Arrests El Salvador’s Most Wanted Fugitive in Virginia

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended one of El Salvador’s “most wanted” individuals, who is suspected of murder. This information comes from a press release by the Department of Homeland Security.

On October 2, ICE agents in Virginia took Ismael Enrique Mendoza Flores, known as “El Caraco,” into custody. He is allegedly the leader of the MS-13 gang.

Mendoza Flores was wanted in El Salvador for aggravated murder and illegal dating. Records indicate he was initially arrested in Virginia on August 23 for a felony charge related to unauthorized vehicle use. This incident reportedly occurred on July 28. Following his arrest, he was released on bail, with a preliminary hearing set for October 31.

DHS noted that ICE arrested Mendoza Flores on an active murder warrant; he had been included in the Salvadoran National Police’s “Most Wanted Gang Members” list.

In discussions with U.S. officials, Mendoza Flores mentioned he entered the United States as a child in 2015.

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin remarked, “The brave men and women of ICE arrested one of El Salvador’s most wanted fugitives in Virginia.” She emphasized that gang members like him pose a serious threat and criticized sanctuary policies for protecting such individuals, noting, “President Trump and Secretary [Kristi] Nomu will not allow gang members to terrorize the American people.”

Despite the ongoing government shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security has pledged to continue its immigration enforcement efforts, asserting that law enforcement’s critical mission to protect the country will not be hindered by political challenges.