Massive Arrest Operation Targets Global Criminal Networks in Virginia

A Virginia task force achieves a landmark arrest of over 200 individuals, driving a robust crackdown on transnational criminal organizations, but the larger fight against crime is far from over.

Quick Takes

The Virginia Task Force arrests more than 200 individuals in two weeks to combat transnational crime.
FBI-led operation targets violent gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua.
Multiple agencies, including ICE and Border Patrol, collaborate in the initiative.
The task force is a part of a national effort to address illegal immigration’s impact on crime.

Virginia’s New Task Force Makes Major Arrests

The newly formed Virginia Task Force, an interagency effort coordinated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, has arrested as many as 247 individuals linked to transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). The arrests occurred in the first two weeks of the operation, underscoring the task force’s efficiency. The initiative successfully targeted notorious gangs like MS-13 and the emerging Tren de Aragua, combating activities from drug trafficking to violent crime.

This task force, the first of its kind, involves a robust collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies such as the FBI, Border Patrol, ICE, Virginia State Police, and the DEA. The operation is a component of Operation Take Back America, focusing on violent criminals and narco-trafficking, which is often linked to serious crimes like human trafficking and terrorism.

Virginia task force arrests 247 in crackdown on transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) https://t.co/YJ4inNcYGJ

— John Solomon (@jsolomonReports) March 18, 2025

Tackling Transnational Criminal Organizations

The task force specifically targeted 18 members of MS-13, 6 from the Tren de Aragua gang, and various others involved in different TCOs. The FBI Director aims to expand this successful initiative nationwide, addressing the pressing concerns about groups like the Sinaloa Cartel, and their role in fentanyl smuggling. “TCOs destabilize local communities and fuel violence by engaging in drug trafficking, firearms trafficking, human trafficking, assault, kidnapping, murder, and extortion,” stated the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. These gangs have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations, making it illegal to support them within the United States.

These operations also align with broader efforts addressing illegal immigration’s impact on crime. The enforcement emphasizes the deportation of migrants involved in these illicit activities, as part of a strategy to ensure public safety and dismantle transnational criminal networks.

Public Safety and Enforcement Efforts

Throughout the operation, the task force demonstrated the importance of coordinated law enforcement. Notable arrests included individuals with previous convictions for severe crimes. Cooperation from partner agencies was crucial to the operation’s success, leading to safer communities. The Agents and officers involved in this concerted effort were praised for their vigilant work in apprehending criminals who posed significant threats to safety and security.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s executive order directing state law enforcement to assist in federal immigration enforcement reiterates Virginia’s non-sanctuary status, a key aspect in supporting these ongoing initiatives. The concerted efforts highlight how collaborative actions can result in significant strides against crime.