Federal agents have arrested two men believed to be members of the MS-13 gang in Omaha, Nebraska, including one accused of being among El Salvador’s most sought-after fugitives. The operation unfolded following a routine traffic stop that raised concerns for a local sheriff’s deputy and quickly evolved into a broader investigation.
The initial stop occurred the night of July 6, when Douglas County K-9 Deputy Matthew Baber pulled over a pickup truck traveling along Interstate 80. What began as a standard roadside encounter took a different direction when Baber noticed inconsistencies in the driver’s statements. A follow-up records check through national intelligence systems revealed the man was linked to MS-13 and had a criminal history that included homicide.
Authorities identified the individual as Rene Saul Escobar Ochoa. During the encounter, Escobar Ochoa presented a Texas driver’s license and disclosed his name. His information matched that of someone under federal watch, prompting law enforcement to alert federal officials.
Escobar Ochoa’s apprehension led investigators to another man, Melvin Alejandro Varela Perez. ICE later described Varela Perez as a high-level figure within MS-13 and alleged he had ordered murders and other violent crimes in El Salvador. According to U.S. authorities, he was living in the Omaha area and is listed on El Salvador’s Top 100 Most Wanted list.
Within three days of the traffic stop, both men were taken into custody. Law enforcement said the two had been living in the area and may have been using it as a base of operations. License plate reader data suggested Escobar Ochoa had been present in Omaha since at least late June.
The arrests were carried out without confrontation in a joint effort involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen said the state’s intelligence network had played a key role in sharing information with federal partners, allowing for rapid response once the suspects’ presence was confirmed.
The arrest of Escobar Ochoa also highlighted the impact of local law enforcement collaboration. “We’re fortunate the deputy conducted the follow-up,” said Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson. “Quick action and solid communication helped prevent further risk.”
Federal officials said both individuals face immigration violations and potential removal from the United States. It remains unclear whether El Salvador will seek extradition or whether additional charges will be filed domestically.
The arrests come amid broader efforts by federal agents to track down MS-13 members operating across state lines. Days earlier, U.S. Border Patrol agents in Michigan also detained two men from El Salvador involved in a motel disturbance. One admitted gang membership and claimed to have served two decades in prison for murder. Officers recovered methamphetamine during that case.
Authorities continue to examine potential links between the arrests and other MS-13 activity in the U.S. The investigation remains active.
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