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Franklin, VA. — Two individuals identified by the Franklin Police Department as members of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha criminal street gang, better known as MS-13, have been arrested following an investigation into an international scam targeting a local resident.

According to police, the arrests happened October 29, 2026, after the suspects allegedly scammed a victim out of a substantial amount of money two days earlier and then attempted to collect even more.

But the suspects apparently didn't know police were already one step ahead.

Investigators with the Franklin Police Department coordinated the attempted cash pickup. When the two individuals arrived to collect the additional money, officers were waiting and took both suspects into custody.

Both individuals face multiple felony charges and are being held without bond.

Police are reminding residents that legitimate law enforcement agencies and federal government officials will NEVER demand cash payments or send someone to a person's home to collect money.

Authorities are encouraging residents to remain alert, share the warning with family members, and report suspicious calls or demands for money.

Original Facebook source: Open post

Source note: Star News TV · Nov 1, 2026 1:30 PM.