ICE arrests MS-13 gang member with removal order

ICE News Releases

Filed March 3rd, 2026

Detected March 5th, 2026

Summary

ICE New Orleans reported the administrative arrest of Edgar Vixney Hernandez-Velasquez, an MS-13 gang member with a final order of removal. The individual is in ICE custody pending removal from the United States.

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What changed

ICE Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans, in coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies, announced the administrative arrest of Edgar Vixney Hernandez-Velasquez, an undocumented immigrant from Honduras and a documented MS-13 gang member who had a final order of removal. The arrest was based on intelligence received by the HSI New Orleans Violent Crimes Task Force. Hernandez-Velasquez will remain in ICE custody pending his removal from the United States.

This enforcement action highlights ICE's commitment to removing individuals affiliated with violent gangs who pose a threat to public safety. The agency emphasizes the importance of inter-agency partnerships in identifying and apprehending such individuals. Regulated entities, particularly those in sectors with potential ties to transnational criminal organizations or immigration-related activities, should be aware of ongoing enforcement efforts and the potential consequences for individuals with final orders of removal.

What to do next

Review internal procedures for identifying and reporting individuals with final orders of removal.
Ensure all inter-agency cooperation protocols for gang and immigration enforcement are up-to-date.

Penalties

The individual remains in ICE custody pending removal from the United States.

Source document (simplified)

March 3, 2026 New Orleans, LA, United States Enforcement and Removal

ICE New Orleans arrests MS-13 gang member with final order of removal

NEW ORLEANS, La. — ICE Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans, in coordination with Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force and the Gretna Police Department, reported the administrative arrest of Edgar Vixney Hernandez-Velasquez, an illegal alien from Honduras and documented MS-13 gang member, in Metairie.

HSI New Orleans Violent Crimes Task Force received information indicating Hernandez-Velasquez was a known MS-13 gang member with a final order of removal from the United States. Based on this intelligence, HSI agents located and apprehended him. He will remain in ICE custody pending his removal from the United States.

“Today’s arrest demonstrates HSI’s commitment to protecting our communities from violent gang members who threaten public safety,” said HSI acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. “Our partnerships with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are critical in identifying and removing dangerous individuals like Hernandez-Velasquez from our streets.”

ERO Deputy Field Office Director Brian Acuna added, “ERO will continue to prioritize the removal of criminal aliens, especially those affiliated with violent gangs. This arrest is a testament to our dedication to enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding the public.”

HSI New Orleans remains committed to working with its law enforcement partners to target and dismantle transnational criminal organizations, including MS-13, and to ensure the safety of the community.

Updated:

03/03/2026