SAN ANTONIO — An investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Antonio and the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General led to an 18-month prison sentence for a Venezuelan citizen wanted in Colombia for homicide, extortion, and drug trafficking.
Aderbis Segundo Pirela-Pirela, 30, received the federal prison sentence Nov. 8 for possessing false immigration and social security documents following an investigation conducted by HSI.
Pirela-Pirela is among Columbia’s top ten most wanted fugitives and is expected to face removal proceedings.
“This is a case of an individual with a violent, dangerous criminal history who posed a significant threat to the public and is now facing justice,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “HSI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who endanger our communities are held accountable for their actions.”
On March 12, HSI special agents apprehended Pirela-Pirela based on information received from the Government of Colombia. According to Colombian authorities, Pirela-Pirela is accused of being the second-in-command of the Colombian criminal gang Los Satanás. This gang has plagued several areas of Bogotá with extortion and has been responsible for the murders of individuals who fail to meet their demands. Authorities state that Pirela-Pirela's role within the organization included distributing pamphlets, collecting extortion money, and threatening or attacking victims and their relatives if they did not comply with the gang's demands. His actions have contributed significantly to the fear and violence experienced by the community.
Pirela-Pirela first unlawfully entered the United States on Jan. 2, near El Paso, Texas. On that same day, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) arrested Pirela-Pirela near El Paso, Texas, and issued him a notice to appear. On Jan. 5, USBP released Pirela-Pirela on an order of recognizance. Unknown to USBP at the time, Pirela-Pirela was wanted by Colombian law enforcement authorities for allegations of homicide, extortion, and drug trafficking.