The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) announced the results of Operation Nazare Wave, a multi-agency initiative targeting violent crime in Washington, D.C., and the National Capital Region.

Conducted between April and September, the operation led to the arrest of 826 fugitives, including 63 individuals wanted for homicide, and resulted in the recovery and seizure of 54 firearms, 6.4 kilograms of narcotics and over $1.1 million in U.S. currency.

“This successful operation reflects the collaborative approach the Justice Department has taken to turn the tide against violent crime,” stated Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “From April to September, the U.S. Marshals Service brought together more than 30 law enforcement agencies spanning the Washington, D.C. area to arrest 826 fugitives and seize significant quantities of firearms and narcotics. I am deeply grateful to every Deputy U.S. Marshal and law enforcement partner who took part in this operation.”

Operation Nazare Wave was spearheaded by the USMS Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF) and included the participation of more than 30 local and federal agencies. The initiative not only focused on reducing violent crime within the National Capital Region (NCR) but extended its reach to 19 districts across the U.S. and internationally. 

Fugitives who had fled the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area were apprehended in various locations, while others wanted outside the DMV were tracked down in the region.

Among the significant arrests was that of Rakeem Gilgeours, who fled to Guyana following a July 4 shooting in Temple Hills, Maryland, that killed a 6-year-old boy and injured others. After Guyana deported him, Gilgeours was arrested in Miami on July 31. 

Another notable arrest involved Emmanuel Sewell, a registered sex offender, who was wanted for the murder of his probation officer, David Martinez, in Montgomery County, Maryland. Sewell was captured on June 1 in West Virginia. 

Additionally, on April 29, a 16-year-old suspect was arrested in Suitland, Maryland, for aggravated assault and attempted murder following a shooting at Greenbelt Park.

“I wish to thank all of the deputies, task force officers, and participating agencies for their steadfast commitment and tremendous work,” said USMS Director Ronald L. Davis. “This operation coincided with Operation North Star FY2024 in 10 other metropolitan areas, demonstrating the commitment of the United States Marshals Service and the Department of Justice to work with local law enforcement and communities to reduce violent crime.”

Agencies involved in Operation Nazare Wave included the Metropolitan Police Department of D.C., U.S. Attorney’s Office for D.C., Metro Transit Police, Homeland Security Investigations, Prince George’s County Police, Maryland State Police, Virginia State Police, and many others.

Garland said as part of the broader Justice Department effort, the operation highlights the importance of “collaboration in tackling violent crime, with law enforcement agencies across multiple jurisdictions working together to apprehend fugitives and make communities safer.”

Stacy M. Brown is a senior writer for The Washington Informer and the senior national correspondent for the Black Press of America. Stacy has more than 25 years of journalism experience and has authored...

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2 Comments

  1. Great Place to be I want to write a book also Great to know what’s going on around the world an your own neighborhood. Thanks including me

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