Mexican authorities arrested Francisco Javier, known as 'The Veteran', who is identified as a member of Mara Salvatrucha and ranks among the most wanted fugitives by the FBI. Omar García Harfuch, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC), reported the capture of this individual, whom he described as "one of the 10 most wanted fugitives by the FBI". Harfuch revealed that Francisco Javier, alias 'The Veteran', was part of Mara Salvatrucha and is being sought by U.S. authorities for several crimes, including conspiracy to support terrorists and human trafficking.
According to information provided by the Secretary of Security, the FBI offered a reward of 250 thousand dollars for information leading to the capture of Francisco Javier 'N', noted for directing MS-13 activities in several countries. Additionally, it was highlighted that 'The Veteran' has an arrest warrant in El Salvador for qualified homicide and terrorist organizations, and upon his arrest, he was found in possession of marijuana doses.
The arrest of 'The Veteran' is significant after President Donald Trump declared Mara Salvatrucha a terrorist organization. It is noteworthy that in September 2022, a U.S. court issued an arrest warrant against Francisco Javier Román Bardales. Furthermore, in 2025, Mexican authorities arrested Kevin Fernando Perdomo Díaz, alias 'El Kino', another member of Mara Salvatrucha with arrest warrants in El Salvador and FBI requirements.
Francisco Javier Román Bardales, originally from El Salvador, is accused of leading numerous acts of violence and drug-related crimes and extortion in the United States and his home country. He is considered a high leader of MS-13, and his arrest is a significant blow against this criminal organization.
