A leader of a Colombian criminal organization who is wanted for homicide, arms trafficking and aggravated theft charges in Colombia has been apprehended by Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The 29-year-old from Colombia was apprehended at his College Park residence by deportation officers from ERO Baltimore’s Fugitive Operations Team on Wednesday. He is a leader of the Las Colinas criminal organization, ICE said, and Colombian authorities are seeking custody of him for alleged homicide, arms trafficking and aggravated theft charges.
U.S. Border Patrol officials first encountered the Colombian native in September 2023 after he illegally entered the country, ICE said. Officials served him a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge. He was transferred to the custody of ERO San Diego and was later released.
“He attempted to hide from justice in Maryland, and we simply cannot allow that to happen,” said ERO Baltimore acting Deputy Field Office Director Vernon Liggins.
On July 12, ERO Baltimore learned the man was possibly residing in the Maryland area, ICE said. He was apprehended 19 days later and remains in ERO custody.