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December 14, 2023Harlingen, TX, United StatesHuman Smuggling/Trafficking, Enforcement and Removal

ERO Harlingen removes Salvadoran wanted in home country for human smuggling and illicit association

ERO Harlingen removed Juan Carlos Pena Escobar, 46, a citizen of El Salvador with a final order of removal, to El Salvador via an ICE Air Operations charter aircraft.

HARLINGEN, Texas — ERO Harlingen removed Juan Carlos Pena Escobar, 46, a citizen of El Salvador with a final order of removal, to El Salvador via a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Air Operations charter aircraft.

Pena is wanted by El Salvadoran law enforcement authorities for human smuggling and illicit association.

On Dec. 8, ERO officers with the removal team departed Harlingen on board the charter flight and arrived in San Salvador, El Salvador. Upon arrival, ERO turned Pena over to Salvadoran authorities without incident.

“We will remain committed to our mission of removing criminal noncitizens wanted in their home countries,” said ERO Harlingen Field Office Director Miguel Vergara. “Wanted fugitives will not find refuge in the United States.”

On Aug. 28, Pena entered the United States at or near Hidalgo without inspection, admission or parole by an immigration officer. On Aug. 29, U.S. Border Patrol arrested him and served him with a notice of intent/decision to reinstate prior order.

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