Moises Humberto Rivera-Luna, a senior MS-13 leader, was extradited from Guatemala to the United States to face charges, including racketeering conspiracy, with six co-defendants. His arrest followed a joint effort by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Virginia State Police, and the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department. Rivera-Luna’s extradition is part of efforts to dismantle MS-13’s activities. Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck stated, "Moise Humberto Rivera-Luna will have his day in court, but he stands accused of very serious crimes." Rivera-Luna made his first court appearance in the District of Columbia after his extradition, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Rivera-Luna is indicted on nine counts, including murder, kidnapping, and assault, but is charged only with racketeering conspiracy. The investigation found that while in prison in El Salvador, he managed MS-13 cliques in the Washington area using cell phones. After being released, he moved to Guatemala, where U.S. authorities requested his extradition. MS-13 is involved in activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and obstruction of justice. Rivera-Luna's leadership role places him at the center of these crimes. VSP Superintendent Colonel Matthew Hanley stated, "will continue to work relentlessly and exhaust all resources to investigate and apprehend anyone who presents a threat to national security or the residents of our communities," with ICE HSI Washington D.C. supporting future efforts. The Office of International Affairs helped secure his extradition from Guatemala, as reported by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
An investigation has revealed a criminal network involving MS-13 across the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and other states. Rivera-Luna is alleged to have orchestrated the murder of Louis Alberto Membreno-Zelaya in November 2008 and authorized the murder of Felipe Enriquez in March 2010. These acts are part of a broader pattern of violence linked to MS-13, contributing to the charges against Rivera-Luna, as noted by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., as stated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
