Calexico, California - El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Calexico station apprehended a gang member attempting to make an illegal entry into the United States, near Calexico this past Tuesday.

Border Patrol agents on patrol observed a man, later identified as Alexander Antonio Salinas-Avalos, a 29-year-old Salvadoran national, after he entered the United States from Mexico at approximately 11 p.m.  Agents responded and arrested Salinas approximately 3.5 miles east of the Calexico Port of Entry.

The man was transported to the Calexico Border Patrol station for processing. Agents discovered that Salinas was a member of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) criminal street gang out of El Salvador, and served an eight year prison sentence for homicide in El Salvador.

Calexico Border Patrol Station’s Patrol Agent in Charge Carlos E. Briones said, “This apprehension demonstrates the diligence of the hard working men and women of El Centro Sector. Their dedication to duty continues to keep our borders and our communities safe.”

Salinas is in Border Patrol custody and will be further processed for his illegal entry into the United States.

The El Centro Sector’s Community Awareness Campaign is a simple and effective program to raise public awareness on the indicators of crime and other threats. We encourage public and private sector employees to remain vigilant and play a key role in keeping our country safe. Please report any suspicious activity to the Border Community Threat Hotline at 1-800-901-2003.