‘Bloodthirsty’ Venezuelan Street Gang Overruns New York: Inside ‘Tren de Aragua’ — Who They are and What They’re Capable of Doing

Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua Surfaces in the U.S., Linked to Criminal Activities

In recent months, the violent Venezuelan street gang Tren de Aragua has emerged prominently in the United States, allegedly involved in numerous criminal operations. Reports indicate that they have taken control of apartment complexes in Colorado, garnering shocking attention nationwide.

So who exactly is Tren de Aragua? This notorious gang is believed to have originated in Venezuelan prisons and has gradually expanded its reach over the last decade. However, their notoriety in the U.S. has significantly increased in the past year, mainly due to a string of high-profile crimes.

Authorities in Aurora, Colorado, have reported that members of Tren de Aragua have overtaken an apartment building, demanding rent in exchange for “protection.” Many speculate that the gang entered the U.S. through the southern border, riding the wave of increased migration in recent years. A Customs and Border Protection bulletin released in March indicated that agents should be on the lookout for tattoos and identifiers associated with the gang. Federal officials had previously warned that Tren de Aragua was seeking to make a name for itself in America, even hinting at potential collaborations with the infamous MS-13 gang.

Republican Representative Tony Gonzales from Texas stated in an interview that the gang has unleashed a wave of violence throughout Central and South America. He added that more individuals with ties to Tren de Aragua are crossing the border illegally, emphasizing that until the border crisis is resolved, it will continue to serve as a conduit for dangerous individuals.

Tren de Aragua is suspected of being involved in well over 62 robberies across New York City. Two suspected members were recently arrested in connection with a shocking assault targeting NYPD officers. Additionally, a suspect connected to the murder of Georgia student Laken Riley has links to the gang, and ten migrants identified as affiliated with Tren de Aragua were apprehended in Texas in May.

In Colorado, Tren de Aragua’s presence has triggered rising concerns. Reports indicate that the gang has been given the green light to engage law enforcement in Denver if necessary. Allegations have surfaced about the gang taking over at least two apartment buildings in Aurora, with claims that a landlord consented to sell a troubled property that was claimed by Tren de Aragua.

Authorities in Aurora have acknowledged that while the gang’s presence may be small, caution is warranted. Four known or suspected gang members were arrested following a violent shootout in July, and these individuals are reportedly illegal immigrants who were previously apprehended at the border but released.

In response to the escalating situation, the Biden administration took significant measures against Tren de Aragua. In July, the Treasury Department designated the gang as a “significant transnational criminal organization,” thereby freezing all assets owned by them in the United States. The State Department is currently offering up to $12 million in rewards for information leading to the capture of three top gang leaders. Senior border officials have made it clear that addressing the threat posed by Tren de Aragua is a priority.

This gang is not just a local problem but a growing threat that could have ripple effects throughout the nation. The authorities are keen to monitor their activities closely, aiming to prevent any further escalation in violence and crime linked to Tren de Aragua.