SouthernWorldwide.com – Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended a Brazilian national who was allegedly a former commander of two designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations. The arrest occurred in North Carolina after the individual attempted to evade a traffic stop, reportedly in preparation for an escape to Mexico.
Authorities stated that the suspect, identified as Dell Aquilla, was wanted in Brazil for charges including criminal association and extortion. He was reportedly making plans to leave the United States and travel to Mexico.
Dell Aquilla’s alleged past leadership roles were within Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV). These are two Brazilian criminal organizations that the Trump administration had recently designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
“By removing a known leader of violent foreign terrorist organizations — wanted for serious crimes including criminal association and extortion — we have prevented further harm to innocent people here and abroad,” stated a DHS official.
Intelligence gathered by law enforcement indicated that Dell Aquilla was holding his wife against her will as he planned his escape route to Mexico. Investigators later interviewed the wife, who corroborated the claim that she had been held against her will.
According to investigators, Dell Aquilla led authorities on a pursuit after a traffic stop was initiated. The chase concluded when he crashed into stopped traffic and allegedly attempted to flee on foot before being taken into custody.
A search of the vehicle yielded several items, including multiple cellphones, laptops, cash, and a 9 mm handgun. These were seized by authorities.
“Our agents, working alongside dedicated state and local law enforcement partners, acted swiftly and decisively to ensure this individual will no longer threaten the safety of our neighborhoods,” a DHS representative commented.
“HSI will continue to pursue those who endanger our communities and bring them to justice.”
Dell Aquilla was transferred to a county jail and is facing a state felony charge for fleeing to elude arrest. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is pursuing additional charges, including kidnapping and being an alien in possession of a firearm, as reported by DHS. ICE has also placed a detainer on him.
Federal authorities confirmed that Dell Aquilla illegally entered the United States at an unspecified date and location.
The operation involved the collaboration of HSI Greensboro, HSI Charlotte, HSI New England, the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mooresville Police Department.
