Markwayne Mullin Critiques Democrats on Border Security

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin reacted strongly after President Donald Trump approved a $70 billion bill to fund ICE and CBP until 2029. Mullin accused Democrats of seeking to undermine border security. He highlighted issues related to sanctuary cities and noted the rising number of undocumented immigrants arrested for serious crimes. Furthermore, he reiterated the Trump administration’s strict approach towards individuals who shelter criminals and confront law enforcement.

ICE Arrests Notorious Brazilian Immigrant in North Carolina

In a related case, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested an undocumented Brazilian immigrant who reportedly tried to evade a traffic stop in North Carolina, allegedly preparing to flee to Mexico. Authorities identified this individual, Felipe Linares de Oliveira del Aquila, also known as “Don,” as a former leader of two foreign terrorist organizations.

Del Aquila was taken into custody in Mooresville, North Carolina, on June 5, following a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Federal officials stated that he was wanted in Brazil on charges of criminal association and extortion and was planning to leave the U.S. for Mexico.

Previously, he held leadership roles in two Brazilian criminal groups: Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV), both of which were recently designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration.

Statements from Law Enforcement

Mark M. Zito, Special Agent in Charge of HSI for North and South Carolina, discussed the significance of the arrest, emphasizing a commitment to community safety. He remarked, “By removing a known leader of a violent foreign terrorist organization, we were able to prevent further harm.”

Authorities suspected Del Aquila was holding his wife against her will, as she intended to flee to Mexico. After interviewing her, investigators confirmed she had been detained involuntarily.

The pursuit began when officers tried to stop Del Aquila’s vehicle, which subsequently collided with stopped traffic. He attempted to flee on foot but was captured shortly after. In the vehicle, investigators found multiple cell phones, a laptop, cash, and a 9mm handgun.

Additional Arrest Information

Zito reaffirmed the dedication of law enforcement teams to ensure public safety: “Our investigators took swift and decisive action to ensure this individual no longer poses a threat.”

Moving forward, Del Aquila has been transported to county jail and faces a state charge of evading arrest, with further charges of kidnapping and possession of a firearm by an undocumented alien pending. According to federal officials, he entered the U.S. illegally, but specifics regarding the date and location remain unclear.

HSI Greensboro, HSI Charlotte, and other local law enforcement agencies collaborated on this operation.