FBI, ICE Capture High-Ranking MS-13 Leader in Maryland

BALTIMORE, MD — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials, in coordination with the FBI, apprehended David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman, a 27-year-old Salvadoran national, on Feb. 27, 2025, in Hyattsville, Maryland. Orellana is wanted in El Salvador for serious charges, including firearm possession, extortion, and affiliation with the MS-13 terrorist organization.

The arrest was announced by Matthew Elliston, the acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations. “The apprehension of David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman strikes a significant blow to the leadership and organization of the MS-13 terrorist organization,” Elliston stated. He added, “This arrest speaks volumes about the cooperation enjoyed between ICE and the FBI. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our communities.”

Orellana is identified as a high-ranking leader within MS-13, maintaining control over its cliques across the United States, Mexico, and Europe. The FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge, William J. DelBagno, asserted that Maryland is now safer because of this arrest. “Working together, we took custody of one of the highest-ranking gang members in the United States,” DelBagno said. “His arrest demonstrates the success we can have when we collectively investigate and disrupt violent criminals seeking to exploit our communities.”

Prior to this recent arrest, Orellana was apprehended in El Salvador on Dec. 1, 2016, for firearm possession and extortion. He has since been documented as a member of MS-13. ICE officials reported that Orellana illegally entered the United States at an undisclosed time and location, without inspection or parole from immigration authorities.

In December 2024, Orellana was also arrested by the Prince George's County Police Department for driving without a license. Following his recent arrest by ICE, he remains in custody awaiting further processing.

Members of the public can report any crimes or suspicious activity by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or through the ICE website.