On September 19, two Venezuelan nationals were arrested in San Antonio by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents, in a targeted operation against the transnational gang Tren de Aragua, known for its origins within a Venezuelan prison. This development comes as KSAT reported, outlining the collaboration by San Antonio Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety in the apprehension.
These arrests occurred amidst growing concerns over the gang's criminal activities that include illegal firearms trafficking, as stated by Craig Larrabee, HSI San Antonio Special Agent in charge. According to a statement obtained by News 4 San Antonio, "Agents had received information that these individuals were allegedly involved in a conspiracy to illegally transport firearms." Subsequent to their arrest, the suspects were transferred into ICE custody, based on potential immigration violations.
Documented evidence has linked several individuals bearing the gang's unique tattoos — a nautical compass, an eye, a rose, and a clock face — to various crimes around San Antonio's Migrant Resource Center. The range of these crimes includes theft, human trafficking, and possession of fraudulent government documents. Governor Greg Abbott has taken an assertive stance, signing a proclamation designating Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization and pledging resources toward dismantling its operations within Texas.
In a move to solicit public collaboration, Abbott announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of gang members. "Tren de Aragua has spread terror and carnage in every country they’ve been in, and Texas will not allow them to gain a foothold in our state," Governor Abbott told News 4 San Antonio. The community is encouraged to report any insights through the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or via an online tip submission to help enhance public safety and support ongoing investigations.
