(LibertySociety.com) – A major law enforcement operation in Plum Grove, Texas, led to the apprehension of over 120 illegal immigrants, including a homicide suspect from the notorious MS-13 gang.
At a Glance
- Authorities in Houston arrested Luis Miguel Perez-Miranda, a murder suspect affiliated with the MS-13 gang.
- Operation coordinated by ICE, Texas DPS, and Liberty County Sheriff targeted Colony Ridge for high cartel activity.
- Perez-Miranda charged with a homicide in Plum Grove just hours before being captured.
- Participating agencies emphasized collaboration for community safety and national security.
Joint Operation in Texas
Federal and state agencies collaborated on a large-scale operation in Plum Grove, Texas, leading to 120 arrests, largely for illegal immigration violations. Among those arrested was Luis Miguel Perez-Miranda, affiliated with the notorious MS-13 gang and wanted for a recent homicide. This operation is part of broader efforts to curb illegal activity and secure communities, as stated by Chad Plantz from ICE Homeland Security Investigations Houston.
Perez-Miranda allegedly murdered Julian Salas Lopez, a Texas resident, before his arrest. This rapid apprehension came thanks to the close cooperation of agencies such as the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. This joint effort underscores the commitment to removing dangerous individuals and securing local communities.
The Threat of Violent Gangs
MS-13, classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, continues to be a focus for U.S. law enforcement. Perez-Miranda, previously deported six times, highlights the ongoing challenge of preventing re-entry into the U.S. by those with violent backgrounds. It showcases the government’s determination to combat the perceived threat from gangs, especially those identified as transnational criminal organizations.
“Without their incredible sacrifice and commitment to execute their mission at the highest level, this dangerous MS-13 gang member who allegedly butchered an innocent man earlier in the day would still be at-large in the community posing a potential threat to every Houstonian he encountered.” – ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford.
The murder suspect’s arrest reflects a targeted approach by ICE and local law enforcement officials to address cartel activity in specific areas. Colony Ridge, due to its significant immigrant population, is particularly vulnerable to such crimes, making it a priority for law enforcement operations to combat crime and illegal immigration.
Law Enforcement’s Continued Focus
Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement of the operation highlights state efforts to clamp down on crime. These arrests form part of a continuing investigation, aimed at dismantling networks linked to violence, theft, and other crimes. Stronger penalties introduced by the Department of Justice against MS-13 and similar gangs offer law enforcement new leverage in their fight against such groups.
“The intent of designating these cartels and transnational organizations as terrorists is to protect our nation, the American people, and our hemisphere. That means stopping the campaigns of violence and terror by these vicious groups both in the United States and internationally. These designations provide law enforcement additional tools to stop these groups.” – Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
As the government continues these efforts, the interplay of federal, state, and local agencies strengthens the overall capability to secure communities from illegal activity. Such operations signal a significant move towards a broader, more secure nationwide effort against organized crime and illegal immigration.
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