Nationwide Crackdown on Infamous Gang Leads to Dozens of Arrests

U.S. law enforcement agencies strike a major blow against the notorious Venezuelan prison gang Tren de Aragua in coordinated raids across Colorado and New York City, arresting dozens of suspected members.

At a Glance

22 suspected Tren de Aragua gang members arrested in New York City raids.
16 gang members apprehended in Aurora, Colorado, linked to violent home invasion.
Gang involved in murders, assaults, robberies, and gun smuggling across multiple states.
Raids highlight concerns over border security and sanctuary city policies.
Law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of cooperation between local and federal agencies.

Tren de Aragua’s Reign of Terror Halted

In a sweeping operation, U.S. law enforcement agencies have dealt a significant blow to the Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan prison gang that has been infiltrating American cities. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the NYPD’s federal task force conducted raids in the Bronx and Brooklyn, resulting in the arrest of 22 suspected gang members. Simultaneously, authorities in Aurora, Colorado, apprehended 16 individuals linked to a violent home invasion, exposing the gang’s nationwide reach.

The Tren de Aragua has gained notoriety for its involvement in a wide range of criminal activities, including murders, assaults, robberies, and gun smuggling. The gang’s expansion into the United States, particularly in sanctuary cities, has raised alarm among law enforcement officials and lawmakers alike.

New York City Crackdown

In New York City, the arrests were part of a meticulously planned operation. One key suspect, Jarwin Valero-Calderon, was tracked via an ankle monitor to a Bronx hideout near a daycare center. Valero-Calderon, who had a criminal history in multiple states and had been ordered deported, remained at large until the raid. Other arrested members include Angel Gabriel Marquez Rodriguez and Jhonaiker Alexander Gil Cardozo, both with prior criminal charges.

“This is a gang that set up camp in our city, and it is beyond the pale that the Democratic Party is entrenched against having the NYPD cooperate with ICE to remove them” – Joe Borelli

The raids in New York City have sparked a heated debate about sanctuary city policies. New York City Council Member Joe Borelli and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis have criticized Democratic policies for allowing such gangs to operate freely. The arrests have prompted calls for increased cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Aurora’s Violent Home Invasion

In Aurora, Colorado, the arrest of 16 suspected Tren de Aragua members was linked to a brutal home invasion and kidnapping. Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain described the attack as “torture,” highlighting the gang’s extreme violence. The victims, also Venezuelan immigrants, suffered severe injuries, with one being stabbed during the assault.

“Individuals involved in this type of activity, they victimize their own race and their own ethnicity, and the reason they do that is because they know, because of their status, they will not come forward to police.” – Chief Chamberlain

The Aurora incident has brought attention to the vulnerability of immigrant communities and the challenges law enforcement faces in combating transnational gangs. ICE officials have confirmed that the suspects will remain in federal custody during court proceedings, underscoring the severity of their alleged crimes.

National Security Implications

The Tren de Aragua’s infiltration into the United States has raised significant concerns about border security and immigration policies. The gang, which originated in Venezuelan prisons, has been exploiting the migrant crisis to expand its operations across the country. Law enforcement sources report that the gang has been actively recruiting from migrant shelters and engaging in various criminal enterprises, including drug and human trafficking.

“What we’re seeing is this evolution of Tren de Aragua, where they’ve gone into these sanctuary cities” – former Denver ICE chief John Fabbricatore

The gang’s activities have become a focal point in discussions about U.S. southern border management. President-elect Donald Trump mentioned the gang during a debate, citing their activities as evidence of border security failures. While local leaders have disputed some claims about the gang’s control over specific areas, the recent arrests confirm the serious threat posed by Tren de Aragua to public safety.

As law enforcement continues to dismantle the Tren de Aragua’s operations in the United States, these raids serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating transnational criminal organizations. The success of these operations underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between local, state, and federal agencies in addressing complex security threats that transcend borders and jurisdictions.