Two young missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) were left stunned when they discovered a high-profile FBI raid had taken place just moments away from where they were preaching in Woodbridge, Virginia.
The missionaries, Elder Ford and Elder Collings, had been spending months in the northern Virginia area on a mission trip to spread the teachings of the LDS church and help those interested in learning about Mormonism.
Unaware of the Bust While on a Mission
The pair had been walking the streets of Woodbridge, ministering to locals, when they were approached by reporters who had come to cover the breaking news of a major FBI operation.
At the time, they were unaware of the bust involving MS-13, a notorious gang, and were shocked to learn that a cartel leader, Henrry Josue Villatoro Santos, had been living just a short distance away.
“We didn’t even know what was happening around us,” Elder Collings admitted.
“It’s crazy to think that someone like that was here, right in this neighborhood.”
MS-13 Cartel Leader Arrested in the Area
According to the FBI, Santos, a 24-year-old MS-13 member from El Salvador, was one of the cartel’s top operatives in the U.S.
He had managed to infiltrate the Woodbridge area, which is located about 30 minutes from Washington, D.C. Santos was arrested during a raid in nearby Dale City, Virginia, where authorities found firearms and a golden silencer.
The raid was attended by FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, who were there to oversee the operation.
The missionaries, who had spent the day unaware of the gang presence in the area, expressed their surprise and relief at the news.
“It’s a huge relief that they’ve caught him,” said Elder Collings.
“We feel a lot safer knowing that he’s no longer out there hurting people.”
The Reaction from Local Residents
The arrest also left local residents in shock. Many were taken aback that such a high-profile criminal had been living in their midst without their knowledge.
One Woodbridge local, Willard, expressed his disbelief.
“Woodbridge is supposed to be a quiet place,” he said.
“I had heard about gang activity, but not to this extent. I’m just surprised.”
Another resident, George, expressed his support for the Trump administration’s efforts in tackling the cartel issue, emphasizing the need for stronger law enforcement to protect communities.
“I’m happy that something is being done about it,” George said. “We don’t need criminals like this around here.”
Mormon Missionaries Thankful for the Protection
For Elder Ford and Elder Collings, the news of the bust hit close to home.
Both had been concerned about their safety while on their mission, and the arrest of Santos gave them a sense of reassurance.
“I always pray for safety when I wake up in the morning,” Elder Ford said.
“Knowing that someone like him is off the streets makes me feel safer, and I’m grateful for the authorities who made this happen.”
The young men were also encouraged by the larger message they believed the raid sent—one of ensuring safety and peace for future generations.
“It’s important to keep our communities safe, especially for children and families,” Elder Ford added.
“I’m glad to see that the police are doing their part in keeping the peace.”
Local Awareness of Cartel Activity
While the bust was a shock to many, some residents had noticed signs of cartel activity before.
Lester, another Woodbridge local, pointed out that MS-13 members had been marking their territory by vandalizing property in the area.
“They’ve been going around tagging cars and houses with their symbols,” Lester shared.
“It’s good that the authorities stepped in to take control of the situation.”
For the LDS missionaries, the unexpected turn of events was a stark reminder of the challenges they face in their mission, but also of the importance of the work they do.
Despite the alarming news, they remain dedicated to their task of spreading their faith and supporting the community.