ICE Deports MS-13 Gang Leader Wanted for Murder After Multiple Illegal Re-Entries

WASHINGTON — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials announced the deportation of Wilmer Alexy Garcia-Manzanarez, a leader of the MS-13 gang wanted in El Salvador for murder, after he repeatedly entered the United States illegally, according to authorities.

Garcia-Manzanarez was removed from the country following several unauthorized re-entries, officials said. His deportation underscores ongoing efforts by ICE to identify and expel individuals involved in serious criminal activity who attempt to circumvent immigration enforcement.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) highlighted that Garcia-Manzanarez tried to exploit the U.S. immigration system, but ICE’s enforcement actions ultimately prevented him from remaining in the country. Officials did not provide specific details about the circumstances of his apprehension or the exact number of times he re-entered illegally.

MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, is a transnational criminal organization with roots in Central America, particularly El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala. The gang is known for violent crimes including murder, extortion, and drug trafficking. Garcia-Manzanarez’s leadership role within the gang and his murder charges in El Salvador made him a priority target for ICE enforcement.

The deportation comes amid ongoing debates about immigration policy and border security under the current administration. DHS officials emphasized that efforts to remove dangerous criminals remain a key component of their immigration enforcement strategy.

While the Biden administration has implemented various immigration reforms, including changes to asylum procedures and border management, ICE continues to focus on individuals who pose threats to public safety. Garcia-Manzanarez’s case illustrates the agency’s commitment to preventing gang members and other serious offenders from exploiting immigration pathways.

ICE has faced criticism from some advocacy groups over its enforcement tactics, but officials maintain that removing individuals with criminal backgrounds is essential to protecting communities. The agency’s actions in this case were described as part of a broader initiative to disrupt gang activity and enhance national security.

Authorities did not disclose whether Garcia-Manzanarez will face prosecution upon return to El Salvador or if he will be held in custody there. The Salvadoran government has cooperated with U.S. officials on law enforcement matters related to transnational gangs, including MS-13.

Garcia-Manzanarez’s deportation follows a series of similar removals of gang-affiliated individuals in recent years, reflecting ICE’s ongoing focus on targeting organized crime figures within the immigration system. Officials stressed that the agency remains vigilant in identifying and removing those who attempt to evade legal processes.

As immigration enforcement continues to evolve, cases like Garcia-Manzanarez’s highlight the challenges of balancing border security, public safety, and humanitarian considerations. DHS and ICE officials reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing immigration laws while addressing threats posed by criminal organizations operating across borders.