San Antonio/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on October 06, 2024
San Antonio Cops and Feds Bust Venezuelan Gang Henchmen in 'Operation Aurora' StingSource: Facebook/San Antonio Police Department

San Antonio streets became the battleground for law enforcement's crackdown on the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, known for its involvement in human trafficking and narcotics. In a sweeping initiative early yesterday morning, multiple agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security, arrested over a dozen suspects linked to the criminal organization at a North Side apartment complex. San Antonio Police Chief William McManus dubbed the suspects as threats to the community, with Tren de Aragua's reach extending from an origin in Venezuelan prisons to the soil of the United States.

According to Texas Public Radio, the operation cleared 300 vacant apartments in the 10300 block of Sahara Drive, a location which had been under scrutiny for illicit activities. "We’ve confirmed that four TDA members are in custody, Tren De Aragua members are in custody. One member is a confirmed enforcer for that gang," McManus stated. The aggressive message was clear: "We know where you are, and we are coming for you."

The arrests are a part of 'Operation Aurora,' where San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said the apartments were suspected hideouts for gang members. Telemundo 60, an NBC affiliate, revealed that 19 people in total were arrested, 15 of whom also received detention orders from immigration authorities on charges of violating immigration laws. This extensive law enforcement action was a coordinated effort amongst state and federal agencies to clamp down on a gang that has tainted Texas with its criminal operations.

Adding to Texas' confrontational stance, September saw Gov. Greg Abbott designate Tren de Aragua as a "foreign terrorist organization," highlighting the severity of the threat posed by the gang, as reported by Texas Public Radio. This designation, coupled with ongoing surveillance and crackdowns, reflects law enforcement's determination to incapacitate the gang's network. The weekend events are just part of a broader effort, with the Texas Department of Public Safety tracking TdA activity across the state, signaling that the fight against Tren de Aragua's encroachment is far from over.