Exclusive: Fox News Launches NJ Investigation with Federal Taskforce Led by Alina Habba — ‘You Can Run But You Can't Hide’

An early morning operation in Newark, New Jersey jolted residents awake as U.S. Marshals descended on a neighborhood, conducting a high-profile raid targeting a suspected member of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang. Authorities stated the suspect, who is believed to be in the country unlawfully, is wanted in connection with a spree of armed robberies on subway lines in New York City. This latest push comes as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to crack down on violent crime across the region.

The action is part of Operation Apex Hammer, a sweeping, month-long initiative designed to reduce violent crime through collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies. Teams involved are zeroing in on individuals affiliated with dangerous gangs such as MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Sex Money Murder-Bloods, and the Rolling 60’s Crips, among others. The focus remains on those with active felony warrants, many of whom are considered armed and extremely dangerous.

“The United States Marshals Service on a regular basis goes after the most violent fugitive offenders. People that are wanted for murder. People who are wanted for shootings,” emphasized Juan Mattos, the United States Marshal for the District of New Jersey. The commitment to public safety is being reinforced by visible, coordinated actions in neighborhoods where gang activity and violent crime have taken hold.

Joining the street operations was Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, who observed the efforts firsthand. “We are doing multiple cases at once to make sure that we clean up as quickly as possible. Violent crime is number one. It is very clear from this administration. That is all we're focused on,” said Habba. She stressed that the mission transcends politics, underscoring the urgency to address violence directly and decisively.

Despite an elaborate stakeout, the primary suspect targeted in Newark evaded capture. Instead, authorities encountered three migrants exiting the premises, all reportedly in the country without legal status. The pursuit for the suspected Tren de Aragua member remains active, highlighting the challenges law enforcement faces in apprehending individuals adept at evasion.

Habba voiced frustration at what she perceives as a disregard for the law by some criminal elements, particularly those tied to international gangs. “He is a gang member of Tren de Aragua. But they think they have rights here that they just don't have. You are a criminal you need to get out,” she asserted, signaling a hardline stance on prosecuting offenders regardless of immigration status.

Operation Apex Hammer is not solely focused on non-citizens. The teams have also apprehended several U.S. citizens with outstanding arrest warrants, including a New Jersey woman accused of shooting at least two people recently. In another dramatic incident, a man wanted for aggravated assault narrowly escaped capture by fleeing down a fire escape before ultimately being taken into custody.

“You can run, but you cannot hide. I think that the message is loud and clear. Our Marshals and the partner agencies that work alongside of us will always be determined to bring people back to justice. No matter the passage of time, no matter how long it takes,” Marshal Mattos declared, underscoring the resolve of law enforcement to pursue fugitives relentlessly.

Despite the inherent dangers, Habba remains resolute. She credits her safety to the professionalism of her team and her steadfast faith. Reflecting on advice given to her by former President Trump, she shared, “One time the President told me do not worry about the people who tell you that they are going to hurt you. Worry about the ones that don’t.”

Appointed by President Trump, Habba serves as Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey—a role she can fill for up to 120 days pending Senate confirmation. She expressed confidence in facing political scrutiny, saying, “Unfortunately, one thing I've learned about the last four years is some people have made their mind up about who you are, they don't really know you, but I will tell you one thing, I'm doing my job every day regardless of what anybody thinks of me. My job right now is to be the Chief Law Enforcement Officer in the state of New Jersey. This is not political, this is purely about being a prosecutor.”

The crackdown will persist throughout June, with dozens of arrests already reported. Authorities vow to keep up the pressure, intent on dismantling networks of violent offenders and restoring a sense of security to communities across New Jersey and beyond.