ICE captures alleged MS-13 kingpin involved in five murders

On July 9, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted an operation in Omaha, Nebraska, arresting an alleged high-ranking member of the MS-13 gang, who is also wanted in El Salvador for multiple murders and serious crimes. This operation comes as part of ongoing enforcement actions across the United States to combat violent crime and illegal immigration. Authorities have classified the individual as one of El Salvador’s Most Wanted and have linked him to the killings of five victims, which highlights the dangers posed by such criminal organizations that operate beyond their home countries. Along with the main suspect, ICE arrested an associate identified as Rene Saul Escobar Ochoa, further emphasizing the threats posed by gang members residing illegally within the United States. This targeted operation follows a significant increase in ICE enforcement efforts, with over 70 arrests being made across various operations in Omaha in recent weeks. Federal authorities stress the importance of public support and awareness in addressing the risks associated with illegal immigration and gang violence. Mark Zito, the ICE Special Agent in Charge of Kansas City, emphasized the notion that these illegal aliens represent a legacy of violence and terror as they attempt to evade law enforcement in America. He reiterated that such apprehensions are part of a broader strategy to protect neighborhoods across the nation, underscoring the urgency and necessity of these operations as a response to the threats posed by gangs like MS-13.