A South American crime boss wanted in connection with at least 23 killings in Peru was captured in New York this week after entering the U.S. illegally in May. Gianfranco Torres-Navarro, the leader of the gang “Los Killers de Ventanilla y Callao,” was arrested along with his girlfriend, Mishelle Ortíz Ubillús. Their capture ended an international manhunt that started after a string of violent crimes attributed to the gang. Torres-Navarro, also known as “Gianfranco 23,” is accused of carrying out contract killings, extortion, and running a criminal organization.
Torres-Navarro’s victims included rival gang leaders and their families, with some instances where he personally executed his rivals. Peruvian authorities say he fled the country after being suspected of killing a retired police officer and injuring a municipal employee in March. Ortiz Ubillús, described as Torres-Navarro’s romantic partner, lieutenant, and cashier, has showcased their luxury lifestyle on TikTok, flaunting designer clothes and resort vacations. Their arrest in New York raised questions about why Torres-Navarro was initially released by immigration authorities after his illegal entry into the U.S. in May.
Following his illegal entry into the U.S. near Roma, Texas, Torres-Navarro was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection but released with a notice to appear for immigration proceedings. It wasn’t until July that Peruvian authorities ordered his international capture, leading to his arrest in New York. The Border Patrol releases tens of thousands of migrants each month with notices to appear in immigration court, but the number has decreased due to tighter enforcement measures. Torres-Navarro and Ortíz Ubillús are currently in detention and are likely to be deported to Peru unless they face charges in the U.S.
Torres-Navarro has been a target of Peruvian authorities for years, with previous arrests and convictions for illegal weapons possession. Despite the history of crimes, he has managed to evade accountability until now. In June, several members of “Los Killers” were arrested on charges of homicide, contract killing, and extortion. Peruvian authorities had been tracking Torres-Navarro and his gang through phone calls, geolocations, and messages. The arrest in New York comes after increased scrutiny on border security and screening measures for known or suspected criminal individuals attempting to enter the U.S.
Authorities have not provided details on why Torres-Navarro was released initially or if he was subjected to proper screening procedures during his entry into the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security stated that it uses various resources and information to screen and vet incoming individuals, including those flagged by international partners. Torres-Navarro and Ortíz Ubillús are currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings, with the possibility of deportation to Peru. The capture of Torres-Navarro and his gang members marks a significant milestone in the efforts to combat transnational organized crime and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
