U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers made a significant arrest during a traffic stop in Shelby Township, Michigan, on Wednesday.
The stop was initiated after officers identified a vehicle with a fake license plate.
Three individuals inside the car were found to be in the United States illegally, one of whom is identified as Venezuelan national Manuel Zavala-Lopez.
Zavala-Lopez is an alleged member of the Tren de Aragua gang, a group designated as a foreign terrorist organization during President Donald Trump’s second term.
He entered the United States in May 2023 and was subsequently released, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Reports indicate that Zavala-Lopez has a troubling history of violent crime across various states.
He has an outstanding warrant for failing to appear on a felony assault charge in Denver, Colorado.
His criminal past includes charges of robbery resulting in physical injury, criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use, assault, possession of stolen property, and petty larceny in New York.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized the importance of law enforcement in getting Zavala-Lopez off the streets.
“Thanks to our brave law enforcement, he is off the streets and will no longer be able to terrorize American citizens,” McLaughlin stated.
Zavala-Lopez will remain in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pending his removal from the country.
Detroit Sector Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris also commented on the arrest, highlighting its significance for public safety.
“This marks the second arrest of a gang member from a foreign terrorist organization this month,” Morris said, underscoring the efforts of agents and law enforcement partners.
This incident is part of a broader initiative aimed at addressing criminal threats posed by gangs operating in the U.S.
Zavala-Lopez is just one example of the dangers that illegal immigrants with criminal backgrounds pose to communities.
Lt. Mark Benedettini of the Shelby Township Police Department echoed this sentiment in his communication with Fox News Digital.
“This Tren de Aragua gang member, who had no business being in our country, let alone roaming the streets of Shelby Township, serves as our department’s commitment to keeping our community safe,” Benedettini stated.
In addition to this arrest, two Salvadoran nationals, also in the country illegally, were detained by CBP in Detroit earlier this month.
Their arrest occurred following a call for support during an altercation at a motel in Sterling Heights.
Investigators learned that one of the men admitted to being a member of MS-13 and had previously served two decades in prison in Central America for a gang-related murder.
“This is a major win for the U.S. Border Patrol and the safety of our communities,” stated Detroit Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Javier Geronimo Jr.
The focus on traffic stops as an enforcement strategy has proven effective in apprehending both individuals with questionable immigration status and illegal drugs.
Earlier arrests include multiple individuals linked to violent crimes and gang affiliations, demonstrating a persistent effort to rid the U.S. of criminal elements.
The recent actions by CBP and local law enforcement showcase the commitment to public safety and the importance of interagency cooperation in confronting gang-related issues.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities remain vigilant in addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration and violent gangs operating within U.S. borders.
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