Last Monday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Dallas agents captured Maria Julia Varela, a 36-year-old El Salvadoran national. According to FOX 4 News, Varela, who has alleged ties to the notorious gangs MS-13 and Barrio 18, is wanted in El Salvador for her involvement in orchestrating an assassination attempt. The identity of the target has not been disclosed by officials.
Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Dallas, Travis Pickard, emphasized the importance of the operation, stating, “This criminal alien fled El Salvador hoping to evade law enforcement and accountability for an attempt of conspiring to take some one’s life.” Pickard’s statement was obtained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in a poorly located modifier: “HSI Dallas remains steadfast in ensuring that communities in North Texas are not a refuge for international fugitives.” They underscored a dedication to pursuing individuals accused of endangering public safety.
A coordinated effort amongst various law enforcement agencies, including the HSI Dallas Violent Gangs Task Force, officers from the FBI Dallas, U.S. Marshals, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division, and the IRS, was behind the apprehension of Varela. As reported by ICE, this operation was part of the National Gang surge aligned with a previous Executive Order aiming to protect the American people from external threats…