Massive Florida Immigration Crackdown: Over 800 Illegal Migrants Arrested in 4 Days, Including Murderers, MS-13 and 18th Street Gang Members, and International Fugitives in Operation TidalWave
FLORIDA — In an unprecedented joint effort between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Florida state law enforcement, over 800 illegal migrants were arrested in just four days during a sweeping operation this week. The operation, dubbed Operation TidalWave, has resulted in the capture of a number of dangerous individuals, including murderers and notorious gang members from the MS-13 and 18th Street gangs.
This massive enforcement crackdown, initiated by ICE Miami in coordination with Florida law enforcement, has been described as a landmark operation in addressing illegal immigration and criminal activity within the state. The operation targeted migrants who had entered the country unlawfully, many of whom had extensive criminal histories.
High-Profile Arrests
Among those arrested were several individuals with serious criminal backgrounds. Notable arrests include:
- Jose Sanchez Reyes, a Colombian national who entered the U.S. illegally as a “gotaway” and was later convicted of homicide in Colombia. Reyes had been living in Florida and now faces deportation.
- Rafael Juarez Cabrera, a Guatemalan national and known MS-13 gang member. Cabrera had been arrested multiple times for illegal entry into the U.S. and had re-entered the country illegally three times. He now faces additional charges and deportation proceedings.
- Savva Klishcheviskii, a Russian national with a Interpol Red Notice out for his arrest. Klishcheviskii is wanted in Russia for vehicular manslaughter, and his arrest is seen as a significant step in international cooperation to bring fugitives to justice.
- Aron Isaak Morazan-Izaguirre, a Honduran national and suspected member of the 18th Street gang, was arrested after illegally re-entering the U.S. two times. Morazan-Izaguirre is also under investigation for potential links to terrorist activities.
The Ongoing Impact of Operation TidalWave
The ongoing operation, which continues to see additional arrests, is part of a larger effort to ensure the enforcement of President Trump’s mass deportation policies. The aggressive crackdown is aimed at removing individuals who have entered the country unlawfully and who are considered a threat to public safety due to their criminal backgrounds.
Florida law enforcement officials have praised the operation for its success in capturing individuals who have been evading authorities for years. ICE officials stated that this collaboration between state and federal agencies is a significant step forward in tackling both illegal immigration and criminal gangs operating within the state.
Collaboration and Future Plans
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis commended the initiative, noting the importance of strong state-federal partnerships to safeguard local communities from the impact of illegal immigration and gang violence. Governor DeSantis emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring that criminals who enter the U.S. unlawfully will face the consequences of their actions.
“We cannot and will not tolerate individuals who have entered our country illegally and have committed violent acts. Our law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to remove dangerous criminals and protect our communities,” said DeSantis in a statement.
While Operation TidalWave is still ongoing, it has already been hailed as one of the most successful multi-agency immigration enforcement operations in the U.S. The operation is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, with additional arrests and deportations anticipated.
National Implications
The success of Operation TidalWave in Florida has raised questions about whether similar operations will be launched in other states. The operation’s emphasis on removing individuals with violent criminal histories has been particularly praised, and it has garnered attention from lawmakers across the country.
As the federal government continues to implement stricter immigration policies, Operation TidalWave serves as a reminder of the aggressive stance being taken on immigration enforcement, particularly for individuals with criminal backgrounds.
In the coming weeks, authorities are expected to provide further updates as the operation progresses and additional arrests are made.