Full Breakdown
ICE Arrests Brazilian National Alleged Former Commander of Designated Terrorist Groups After North Carolina Car Chase
6/16/2026, 6:51:53 AM
Arrest of Alleged Terrorist Leader in North Carolina
On June 5, 2024, ICE agents, with state and local partners, arrested Brazilian illegal immigrant Felipe Linares de Oliveira Dell Aquilla in Mooresville, NC, after a traffic stop led to a vehicle pursuit, a crash, and an attempted foot escape. A search of his car recovered cellphones, laptops, cash and a 9 mm handgun.
Background: Designated Brazilian Gangs
Dell Aquilla is alleged to have been a commander in the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV), both designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations by the U.S. State Department under the Trump administration.
Timeline of June 5
- Early: Mooresville police stop Dell Aquilla’s vehicle.
- Minutes later: He evades, prompting a high-speed chase that ends in a crash; he attempts to flee on foot and is captured.
- Afterward: His wife reports she had been held against her will; he is booked on a state felony for fleeing and faces federal kidnapping and firearm charges.
Official Statements & Agency Response
HSI officials said the operation shows a commitment to protect communities from individuals tied to violent foreign groups. They called Dell Aquilla a “known leader” whose removal helps prevent further crime and noted ongoing investigations into kidnapping and illegal firearm possession. HSI emphasized coordination with state and local partners throughout the pursuit.
Data & Seized Items
Agents seized cellphones, laptops, cash and a 9 mm handgun. Dell Aquilla faces a state felony for fleeing, plus federal kidnapping and alien-in-possession-of-a-firearm charges. An ICE detainer is pending; his illegal entry date and location are unknown.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Federal releases do not specify Dell Aquilla’s illegal entry date or location, nor independently verify his leadership role in PCC or CV. The cash amount seized and the full scope of extortion charges pending in Brazil remain undisclosed.
Why the Arrest Matters
The case illustrates how U.S. immigration and criminal agencies apply FTO designations to foreign nationals involved in transnational crime and highlights inter-agency coordination to address public-safety threats. It also fuels ongoing debate over immigration enforcement priorities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This arrest demonstrates the unwavering commitment of HSI to protect our communities from dangerous international criminals,” — Mark M. Zito, Special Agent in Charge, HSI North and South Carolina
- “By removing a known leader of violent foreign terrorist organizations — wanted for serious crimes including criminal association and extortion — we have prevented further harm to innocent people here and abroad,” — Mark M. Zito
- “Our agents, working alongside dedicated state and local law enforcement partners, acted swiftly and decisively to ensure this individual will no longer threaten the safety of our neighborhoods,” — Mark M. Zito
- “HSI will continue to pursue those who endanger our communities and bring them to justice.” — Mark M. Zito
