Inside America’s Largest MS-13 Crackdowns: How Federal Agents Dismantle Violent Gang Networks

By National Security Desk

WASHINGTON — Federal authorities have repeatedly launched sweeping multi-state crackdowns targeting the violent street gang MS-13, using intelligence-sharing agreements with Central American governments and powerful racketeering laws to dismantle U.S.-based cells.

Operations typically involve the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with state and local task forces.

How Large-Scale Gang Takedowns Work

🔎 Intelligence Coordination
Information often flows from foreign law enforcement partners — particularly in El Salvador — where MS-13 originated. Shared databases, wiretaps and informants help identify U.S.-based leaders.

🚨 Simultaneous Raids
Agents execute synchronized warrants at dawn to prevent suspects from warning one another. These operations may target dozens — sometimes hundreds — of alleged gang members across multiple states.

⚖️ RICO Charges
Prosecutors frequently rely on the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), allowing them to charge entire gang structures rather than isolated individuals.

💰 Asset Seizures
Weapons, narcotics, encrypted phones and cash are typically seized. Financial tracing is used to disrupt money flows tied to extortion and drug trafficking.

The Bigger Strategy

Federal officials say dismantling gang leadership and communication channels is more effective than isolated arrests. But experts caution that decentralized networks can regenerate unless community-based prevention and international cooperation continue.