Two Venezuelan Gang Members Arrested in San Antonio – The Published Reporter

Texas: Two alleged members of the infamous Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) were arrested last week by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in San Antonio. The arrests, which came during a traffic stop, were part of a broader crackdown on the gang, which Texas Governor Greg Abbott has labeled a terrorist organization. The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) assisted in the operation, which led to the arrest of the two individuals. Following the arrests, the suspects were transferred to a federal detention center, although their identities remain confidential as authorities continue to investigate the case.

Gang activity in Texas

The Tren de Aragua, a criminal group that originated in Venezuelan prisons, has expanded its influence into several regions of Texas. DPS provided a map highlighting suspected and documented TdA activity across the state, including areas such as New Braunfels, near Houston, Dallas and West Texas, close to El Paso. There has also been documented criminal activity reported along the Texas-Mexico border, especially near Piedras Negras, but also in far South Texas, Houston and North Texas, near Cleburne and Dallas.

The gang, known for its involvement in human trafficking, is involved in a range of criminal activities. These include extortion, kidnapping, money laundering, contract killings, smuggling and organized shoplifting. Tren de Aragua’s operations span multiple countries, from Panama to Brazil, along the Andes Escort, 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 launched a sweeping, statewide operation on September 16 specifically 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 activities and deny their foothold” in the state. By designating TdA as a terrorist organization, Abbott plans 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 engage the public in the state’s crackdown on organized crime.

Growing concerns about cross-border crime

The arrests in San Antonio underscore broader concerns about the influence of international gangs like Tren de Aragua within U.S. borders. With roots in the Venezuelan prison system, the gang has become a major player in human trafficking and other illegal activities throughout Latin America. Its spread to Texas has raised alarm, prompting state and federal authorities to take decisive action.

As law enforcement continues its efforts to track down and neutralize TdA operations in Texas, the public’s help in identifying gang members is seen as crucial to the success of this massive campaign against organized crime.