Violent Venezuelan Tren de Aragua Gang Members Crossing U.S. Border
Amid the surge of more than 14 million illegal border crossings reported during the Biden administration, a concerning revelation has come to light – violent members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua prison gang have illegally entered the United States.
Spread of Tren de Aragua Activity
Police records and official statements from law enforcement agencies have confirmed that Tren de Aragua-linked crimes and arrests have been documented in 22 U.S. states. These states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Additionally, Tren de Aragua activity has been reported in the District of Columbia.
The gang is notorious for its involvement in violence, murder, kidnapping, extortion, bribery, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. More than 100 law enforcement investigations across the nation have been linked to Tren de Aragua members. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is currently seeking 600 suspected Tren de Aragua members and individuals of interest who have illegally entered the country.
Law Enforcement Response
While Tren de Aragua is believed to have a presence in nearly all U.S. states, local law enforcement agencies have yet to officially confirm this. Federal and state authorities have issued alerts to law enforcement partners on how to identify and apprehend Tren de Aragua members.
In various regions across the country, Tren de Aragua members have been involved in criminal activities, including violent crimes, leading to arrests and ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies.
Challenges and Actions Taken
Authorities in states like Texas and Louisiana have declared Tren de Aragua a foreign terrorist organization due to its involvement in activities like sex trafficking and violent crimes. Efforts are underway to target and eliminate the gang through coordinated operations.
Despite the challenges posed by the presence of Tren de Aragua members in the U.S., law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local levels are actively working to address the threat and ensure the safety of communities.
It is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and collaborate effectively to combat the criminal activities of groups like Tren de Aragua and protect the well-being of residents across the country.