An illegal immigrant from Colombia, wanted in Spain for drug trafficking charges, has been apprehended in Massachusetts by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The 25-year-old fugitive was arrested in the city of Revere by Massachusetts State Police on June 29 for driving an unregistered vehicle without a license.
Following the arrest, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Boston lodged an immigration detainer against the individual, requesting local law enforcement to keep him in custody until transfer to ICE for deportation proceedings. Spanish authorities had issued an arrest warrant for the Colombian national for drug trafficking, although the specific charges remain undisclosed.
The migrant illegally crossed into the U.S. over two years ago at the Del Rio, Texas border. Despite being served a notice to appear before an immigration judge, he was released on recognizance by Border Patrol, with the appearance date unknown.
ERO Boston Field Office Director Todd Lyons emphasized the agency's commitment to public safety, stating that they will not allow New England communities to harbor criminals. The fugitive was arrested at the Massachusetts State Police's Revere barracks and will remain in ERO custody pending removal proceedings.
ICE highlighted the challenges in disclosing the migrant's identity due to privacy rights, noting that significant criminality is required for further details to be revealed. The agency clarified that vehicle charges do not constitute significant criminality.
Spain has been a target for drug traffickers, with some using narco-submarines to transport illicit substances from South America. The Colombian navy has intercepted multiple vessels carrying drugs in the Pacific in 2024.
In a recent operation, ICE arrested over 200 illegal immigrants with drug-related convictions from 30 different countries, involved in trafficking substances like cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and synthetic drugs.
