Texas: Two alleged members of the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) were arrested by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in San Antonio last week. The arrests, which took place during a traffic stop, were part of a broader crackdown on the gang, designated a terrorist organization by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) assisted in the operation, leading to the detention of the two individuals. Following the arrests, the suspects were transferred to a federal detention facility, though their identities remain undisclosed as authorities continue to investigate the case.
Gang Activity in Texas
The Tren de Aragua, a criminal group with its origins in Venezuelan prisons, has expanded its influence across several regions of Texas. DPS provided a map highlighting suspected and documented activity of TdA throughout the state, including areas such as New Braunfels, near Houston, Dallas, and West Texas, close to El Paso. Documented criminal activity has also been reported along the Texas-Mexico border, particularly near Piedras Negras, as well as in far South Texas, Houston, and North Texas, near Cleburne and Dallas.
The gang, known for its involvement in human trafficking, has been connected to a range of criminal activities. These include extortion, kidnapping, money laundering, contract killings, smuggling, and organized retail theft. Tren de Aragua’s operations span multiple countries from Panama to Brazil, along the Andean corridor, making them a significant threat across the Americas. In July 2023, the United States imposed sanctions on the gang, further spotlighting their illegal actions and transnational reach.
Governor Abbott’s Operation and Public Reward
The arrests came just days after Texas Governor Greg Abbott initiated a comprehensive statewide operation on September 16, specifically designed to target the Tren de Aragua. In his announcement, Abbott referred to the gang as a significant threat to Texas and emphasized the need to “disrupt their criminal operations and deny their foothold” in the state. By designating TdA as a terrorist organization, Abbott aims to intensify efforts to dismantle their networks and prevent their illegal activities from further infiltrating Texas communities.
On September 23, Governor Abbott went a step further by announcing a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of additional TdA members. Citizens are encouraged to submit tips to the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or online through DPS channels, as part of a larger effort to involve the public in the state’s crackdown on organized crime.
Rising Concerns Over Transnational Crime
The arrests in San Antonio underscore the broader concern about the influence of international gangs like Tren de Aragua within U.S. borders. With roots in Venezuela’s prison system, the gang has become a major player in human trafficking and other illegal activities throughout Latin America. Their spread into Texas has raised alarms, prompting state and federal authorities to take decisive action.
As law enforcement continues its efforts to track and neutralize TdA’s operations in Texas, the public’s assistance in identifying gang members is seen as crucial to the success of this large-scale campaign against organized crime.
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