A Brazilian national, identified as Felipe Linares De Oliveira Dell Aquilla, also known as “Don,” with alleged connections to two U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations, was apprehended in Mooresville, North Carolina, on June 5. The arrest followed a traffic stop that escalated into a vehicle pursuit and crash, culminating in a foot chase. Federal and local agencies collaborated in the operation, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
"FOREIGN TERRORIST ARRESTED. @HSI_HQ alongside law enforcement partners in North Carolina arrested Felipe Linares De Oliveira Dell Aquilla, a criminal illegal alien from Brazil. Aquilla previously served as the commander of Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho…" — Homeland Security (DHS), Official Tweet.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) units based in Greensboro and Charlotte initiated the traffic stop on Dell Aquilla in Mooresville. Authorities report that Dell Aquilla allegedly failed to comply, leading officers on a pursuit that concluded when his vehicle collided with stopped traffic. He then reportedly attempted to escape on foot but was apprehended shortly thereafter by law enforcement personnel.
Following his apprehension, a search of Dell Aquilla’s vehicle reportedly uncovered multiple cellphones, laptops, a quantity of cash, and a 9mm handgun. Investigators have indicated that these items may be pertinent to ongoing inquiries into his alleged criminal activities and international network.
Federal authorities have identified Dell Aquilla as an alleged former commander within Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV). These two Brazilian criminal organizations were recently designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) by the U.S. government. Officials also stated that Dell Aquilla was wanted in Brazil on charges of criminal association and extortion, highlighting his alleged history of involvement in transnational criminal enterprises.
Further allegations from investigators suggest that Dell Aquilla had entered the United States illegally at an unspecified time and location. Authorities also allege he was in the process of preparing to flee towards Mexico prior to his arrest, raising concerns among law enforcement that he may have been attempting to evade U.S. jurisdiction. The comprehensive nature of the operation suggests a significant federal interest in preventing his potential escape.
The case also includes serious allegations that Dell Aquilla was holding his wife against her will at the time of the operation. Law enforcement officials reported that Dell Aquilla’s wife later confirmed she had been restrained. This allegation is currently under examination as part of potential federal kidnapping charges, according to information reported by WCNC. The addition of such a charge underscores the gravity of the accusations facing Dell Aquilla.
After his arrest, Dell Aquilla was transported to a county detention facility. He currently faces a state charge of fleeing to elude arrest. Concurrently, federal authorities have indicated they are pursuing additional charges, including being an alien in possession of a firearm, given the handgun found in his vehicle, and the aforementioned kidnapping allegations. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has also lodged a detainer against Dell Aquilla, a crucial step to ensure that custody is maintained throughout the legal proceedings, regardless of the outcome of state or federal criminal charges.
The operation was a multi-agency effort, involving HSI field offices from both North Carolina and New England, alongside local law enforcement partners including the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office and the Mooresville Police Department. Officials emphasized that this coordinated effort exemplifies interagency collaboration aimed at addressing individuals suspected of serious transnational criminal activity. HSI leadership in the Carolinas characterized the arrest as part of ongoing initiatives to target individuals with alleged ties to violent international organizations operating across borders. They further stated that the successful operation prevented the suspect from potentially evading law enforcement and leaving the country, securing a significant alleged threat.
Dell Aquilla remains in custody as both federal and state investigations continue. Authorities are actively working to determine the full scope of his activities during his time in the United States and to identify any additional individuals who may be connected to the case. The investigation aims to unravel the extent of his alleged network and criminal involvement within the U.S. and internationally.
