Dilaxan Muraleetharan, Illegal Entry, New York 2025

Buffalo, NY - In a shocking display of disregard for US border laws, Dilaxan Muraleetharan, a 26-year-old citizen and national of Sri Lanka, pleaded guilty to illegal entry before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. on April 30, 2026.

Muraleetharan's crime took place on October 14, 2025, when he was observed on the train tracks on top of the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, located in Niagara Falls, NY. This is not a legal entryway for pedestrians or vehicle traffic. Border Patrol agents responded to the area and approached Muraleetharan, who did not have any valid documents that would allow him to enter or remain in the United States legally.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sasha Mascarenhas, who handled the case, stated that Muraleetharan's actions were a clear breach of US immigration laws. As a result, he was placed under arrest and subsequently turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Muraleetharan's plea and sentencing are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at repelling the invasion of illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime.

The investigation into Muraleetharan's case was led by U.S. Border Patrol, Niagara Falls Station, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Brady Waikal. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat illegal immigration and protect national security.

Muraleetharan was previously ordered removed from the United States in September 2024. His sentence reflects the severity of his crime and the importance of enforcing US immigration laws.

Mandatory facts: Defendant's full name - Dilaxan Muraleetharan, Crime - Illegal Entry, City and State - Buffalo, NY, Exact date - October 14, 2025, Sentence - Time served. This case is a stark reminder of the consequences of violating US immigration laws and the importance of respecting national borders.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny/pr/sri-lankan-man-pleads-guilty-sentenced-illegal-entry