A joint operation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the FBI has resulted in the arrest of a high-ranking MS-13 gang leader in Maryland.
David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman, 27, an illegal Salvadoran alien, was apprehended in Hyattsville on February 27th. Orellana is facing charges in El Salvador for possession of a firearm, extortion, and terrorist affiliation. He is also identified as a documented member of MS-13.
“The apprehension of David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman strikes a significant blow to the leadership and organization of the MS-13 terrorist organization,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston.
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Orellana is considered a high-ranking leader within MS-13, allegedly controlling the operation of cliques in the United States, Mexico, and Europe.
“Maryland is immediately safer because of this arrest,” stated FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno. “Working together, we took custody of one of the highest-ranking gang members in the United States.”
Orellana illegally entered the United States at an unknown date and location. He was previously arrested in El Salvador in 2016 on the charges mentioned above. More recently, the Prince George’s County Police Department arrested him in December 2024 for driving without a license.
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Orellana remains in ICE custody following his arrest. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to target and apprehend individuals involved in transnational criminal organizations and gang activity, particularly those who pose a threat to public safety.
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