South American Crime Boss Captured in Upstate New York After Violent Killing Spree

A major international crime saga took a dramatic turn with the capture of Gianfranco Torres-Navarro, the notorious South American gang leader, in Upstate New York. Torres-Navarro, leader of the violent “Los Killers” gang, is wanted for the brutal killings of at least 23 people in Peru. His arrest comes just months after U.S. immigration authorities initially apprehended him at the Texas-Mexico border and released him into the country.

The Rise of a Criminal Kingpin

Torres-Navarro, 38, is believed to be responsible for a string of murders that have terrorized Peru’s Pacific coast. His gang, Los Killers de Ventanilla y Callao, was formed in 2022 and quickly became known for its extreme violence, targeting rival gangs, construction companies, and anyone who threatened its criminal enterprise. His previous affiliation with the infamous Los Malditos de Angamos gang has made him a key figure in Peru's underworld. Known by the chilling moniker “Gianfranco 23,” he has reportedly tattooed the names of his victims on his body.

A Dangerous Woman by His Side

Along with Torres-Navarro, his girlfriend, Mishelle Sol Ivanna Ortíz Ubillús, was also arrested. Peruvian authorities describe her as his lieutenant and financial handler, managing the gang’s illicit activities. Ortíz Ubillús, who boasts a significant following on TikTok, had previously flaunted a lavish lifestyle, often featuring expensive clothing and vacation spots.

A Missed Opportunity for Justice?

Torres-Navarro’s capture raises important questions about U.S. immigration policies. After illegally entering the United States in May, he was briefly detained and released with a notice to appear for immigration proceedings. U.S. authorities were unaware of his criminal ties to Peru until July, which delayed their efforts to arrest him. This delay led to further violence in Peru, where Torres-Navarro’s gang committed high-profile murders, including the killings of a retired police officer and his family. Navarro and Ubillús are now being held in U.S. detention, with pending deportation to Peru unless they face additional charges in the U.S.