On March 16, 2025, President Trump announced the deportation of 261 gang members to El Salvador, despite a federal court order blocking such actions. The deportees included members of the MS-13 gang and other serious criminals. The Trump administration defended its position, stating the court order was without legal basis. Salvadoran President Bukele welcomed the deportees, emphasizing their significance in combating organized crime in El Salvador.
On Sunday, President Donald Trump showcased a video revealing the deportation of over 250 gang members back to El Salvador, despite a recent order from a federal judge appointed by President Obama. The video featured deported individuals exiting airplanes, as Trump expressed his gratitude towards El Salvador and its President Bukele for their cooperation in addressing the situation. He criticized what he termed “incompetent Democrat leadership” for allowing such individuals to enter the United States.
Bill Melugin from Fox News reported that among the 261 illegal aliens deported, 137 were processed under the Alien Enemies Act and included members of the notorious MS-13 gang. The deportees’ crimes ranged from kidnapping to sexual abuse of a child, emphasizing the severity of their actions. Among those deported were two MS-13 ringleaders, who were highlighted as “special cases” by President Bukele.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the Trump administration’s actions, asserting that they did not violate the federal court order since they considered it unlawful. Leavitt claimed that federal courts generally do not have jurisdiction over presidential foreign affairs, reiterating the administration’s commitment to deporting dangerous individuals as a protective measure.
President Bukele provided additional context regarding the deported individuals, stating that many were members of the Tren de Aragua gang. He noted that the returned MS-13 members would assist Salvadoran authorities in enhancing their intelligence efforts against organized crime. Bukele expressed optimism about the operation’s potential to strengthen El Salvador’s capability in tackling criminal activities.
The deportation marked a significant event in both U.S. immigration policy and Salvadoran efforts to combat gang violence. The agreement between the two nations aims to enhance safety and security in the region, demonstrating a collaborative approach to addressing transnational crime.
The deportation of over 250 gang members from the United States to El Salvador highlights tensions regarding immigration policy and criminal justice. President Trump defended the actions despite legal challenges, and Salvadoran President Bukele indicated that these deportees would bolster efforts against organized crime. This situation underscores the complexities of international cooperation in addressing crime while navigating domestic legal frameworks.
Original Source: www.dailywire.com
