LONG BRANCH, N.J. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested a Brazilian national wanted for drug trafficking in his home country, authorities announced Wednesday. He was hiding out in New Jersey, a sanctuary state under Governor Phil Murphy.
Dirlei Da Luz Da Silva, 35, was taken into custody on March 21 in Long Branch, New Jersey, after Brazilian authorities issued a warrant for failing to appear and serve a 12-year, 10-month prison sentence for drug-related crimes.
Key Points
- Dirlei Da Luz Da Silva was arrested in Long Branch on March 21
- He faces a prison sentence in Brazil for drug trafficking offenses
- ICE and the FBI coordinated on the fugitive’s apprehension
Da Luz had previously been arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents on March 6, 2024, near El Paso, Texas. He was issued a notice to appear in immigration court and released on an order of recognizance, pending removal proceedings.
The FBI assisted ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Newark during the apprehension.
“We are committed to arresting aliens who have been involved in criminal activity, whether it be in the U.S. or overseas,” said ICE Newark Field Office Director John Tsoukaris.
Da Luz is currently in ICE custody as removal proceedings continue.
A convicted drug trafficker wanted in Brazil was caught hiding out in New Jersey after being released at the U.S. border.