FBI's top fugitive Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales captured in Mexico

In March 2025, authorities in Mexico apprehended Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, a Salvadoran national and key leader of the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang. His arrest took place on the Teocelo-Baxtla highway in Veracruz, orchestrated through a joint effort among several Mexican law enforcement agencies including the Defense Ministry, Navy, and National Guard. The arrest was part of a broader initiative aimed at dismantling criminal organizations contributing to violence in the region. Following the procedures, Roman-Bardales was informed of his arrest and legal rights before being prepared for extradition to the United States. Born in El Salvador, Roman-Bardales is believed to have been directing gang activities not only in Mexico but also in the United States and El Salvador. He was indicted by a federal court in the U.S. on charges including conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, narco-terrorism conspiracy, and racketeering conspiracy. The FBI has linked him to various violent activities, suggesting that he has played a significant role in orchestrating the MS-13's operations across international borders since the gang's inception in the mid-1980s. The execution of this arrest aligns with Mexico's increasing law enforcement efforts against powerful drug cartels and criminal syndicates amidst pressure from the U.S. government. This intensified focus coincides with previous extraditions of high-profile criminals, indicating a shift in Mexico’s policy regarding cooperation with U.S. law enforcement. For years, the U.S. has urged Mexico to take action against drug trafficking and gang-related violence, leading to strained diplomatic relations, especially under the administration of former President Donald Trump, who implemented harsh tariffs to leverage cooperation on these issues. In this context, the apprehension of Roman-Bardales is being viewed as a significant win, contributing to safer communities in the U.S. and demonstrating Mexico's commitment to addressing its drug-related violence problem. As Roman-Bardales prepares for extradition, it will be crucial for authorities to build a robust case against him in U.S. courts. The implications of this arrest extend beyond just one individual; it symbolizes a broader campaign against the transnational crime networks that have destabilized communities in both the United States and Central America. Continued collaboration between Mexico and the U.S. will be essential moving forward to confront the evolving challenges posed by these criminal organizations.