ICE Philadelphia arrests 24 immigration violators, including suspected MS-13 gang member and felon convicted of assault

BELLEFONTE, Penn. — On Aug. 19, ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations officers conducted a targeted enforcement operation in Bellefonte resulting in the arrests of 24 individuals for violations of U.S. immigration laws.

During the operation, ICE officers apprehended Oscar Alexis Martinez-Lopez, a Salvadoran illegal alien and suspected MS-13 gang member who was previously arrested in El Salvador for homicide, and Delfin Amaya-Peres, a Honduran illegal alien whose criminal record includes convictions for assault, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest in 2011.

“ICE is focusing on the worst first through targeted enforcement. However, it is also a crime to live in this country illegally,” said ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane. “Knowing this, ICE has been empowered to vigorously search out, arrest and remove anyone violating federal immigration law.”

The operation, which took place near Interstate 99 in Bellefonte, was initiated following an investigation that identified multiple immigration law violators suspected of temporarily residing at the location. After leaving the premises, the individuals were intercepted during traffic stops, leading to the arrests.

The following aliens were among those arrested:

• One convicted of assault
• One identified as an MS-13 gang member and homicide suspect in El Salvador
• Seven with final orders of removal, four of whose orders were reinstated Four previously expelled under Title 42

ICE remains dedicated to upholding the immigration system’s integrity while prioritizing the removals of aliens who undermine the safety and security of the United States.

Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X: @EROPhiladelphia.

Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE.gov)