David Campbell, the principal supplier of drugs and weapons for the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang, has been arrested in Honduras on charges of racketeering, narcotics trafficking, and firearm offenses. He has subsequently been extradited to the United States.
Alongside Campbell's arrest, four other MS-13 leaders have also been charged with similar offenses. These include Yulan Andony Archaga Carias, recognized as the top leader of the MS-13 gang in Honduras. According to a press release by the Department of Justice (DOJ), both Campbell and Carias faced identical charges in 2021. This led to Carias being placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List. The U.S. Department of State has offered a $5 million reward for information leading to Carias' capture. The MS-13 gang is notorious for its violent activities in both the United States and Central America over several decades, establishing itself as one of the world's most dangerous criminal organizations.
"Today’s extradition of David Campbell and the announcement of charges against four other MS-13 leaders for their alleged involvement in trafficking multi-ton loads of cocaine and for allegedly perpetrating unspeakable acts of violence in our communities is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the men and women of DEA to save lives and hold drug traffickers accountable," said Anne Milgram, Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). "DEA will continue to seek justice for all Americans suffering the devastating effects of drug poisonings and drug-related violence in our communities."
Also known as Mara Salvatrucha, MS-13 primarily generates income through extortion efforts. According to an article by InSightCrime, it was classified as a "transnational criminal organization" by the US Department of Treasury - a first for any street gang. Founded in marginalized neighborhoods in Los Angeles during the 1980s, MS-13 now has a presence across North and South America.
