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Members of several law enforcement agencies arrested 25 members of the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang in Fresno County, California on Friday.

According to California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, the arrest resulted from a multi-agency operation called Blue Inferno. This operation has already resulted in the arrests of multiple individuals, not just in California, but also in other states.

Prior to the arrest of the 25 MS-13 gang members, federal, state and local law enforcement conducted a months-long investigation into the 14 murders that happened in Mendota.

Operation Blue Inferno Prevented Violent Crimes across the U.S. and Overseas

Investigators believed that the crimes were related to MS-13. During the investigation, they found evidence of broad criminal activity including murder, assault, firearm possession and drug trafficking.

The investigators helped solve several homicides and prevented violent crimes across the United States and overseas using the intelligence they obtained in the investigation.

In a statement, Becerra said, “When you terrorize communities, you must pay the price.” He added that the “operation will lead to the vigorous prosecution” and “conviction of violent criminal gang members.”

Furthermore, the attorney general stated that Operation Blue Inferno showed the “dedication and hard work” of federal, state and local law enforcement personnel. His office intends to continue working with its law enforcement partners to ensure the safety and security of all Californians.

Law Enforcement Will Crack Down on MS-13 and Other Transnational Criminal Organizations

Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California McGregor Scott said law enforcement will not tolerate criminal enterprises like MS-13 in any town.

Fresno County District Attorney Lisa A. Smittcamp also issued a comment regarding the operation.

“MS-13’s cell in Fresno County is now destroyed," Smittcamp said. "We will continue to work together to keep them out of our communities.”

Meanwhile, the FBI and Home Security Investigations remained committed to working closely with their federal, state, local and foreign law enforcement partners to stop transnational criminal organizations.