Agents from the Chula Vista Border Patrol Station apprehended an individual linked to the infamous MS-13 gang last week while he was trying to cross the border unlawfully, according to officials.
At approximately 3:15 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 22, agents from the Border Patrol came across a group of people who had crossed the U.S.-Mexico border without authorization.
One individual in the group, when asked about his citizenship, initially stated that he was from Mexico, as explained by CBP officials. Upon deeper inquiry, it became evident that the individual had submitted misleading personal details to hide his actual identity.
After additional processing at the Border Patrol station, agents verified that the person in question was a 32-year-old citizen from El Salvador and affiliated with the MS-13 gang. He is currently under the care of the Department of Homeland Security, awaiting swift removal in accordance with the recent directive aimed at enhancing border security.
“I applaud our San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents for their dedication and diligence to protecting our country,” said Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel. “Keeping dangerous subjects from entering our communities is our pledge to America.”
During the fiscal year 2024, the San Diego Sector Border Patrol reported the apprehension of 26 gang members, reflecting a significant increase of 62.5% from the prior year, according to a statement from CBP officials.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the San Diego Sector by calling (619) 498-9900.