In Austin, Texas, an individual with suspected gang affiliations was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in a joint effort with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. The 34-year-old Venezuelan man, believed to be a member of the Tren de Aragua gang, was taken into custody on February 6, as part of a routine enforcement operation, FOX 7 Austin reports.

Further checks revealed, the man had a criminal record for attempting to smuggle firearms out of the United States. "The arrest of a suspected TdA gang member, previously convicted of firearms smuggling, marks a significant victory in our ongoing efforts to enhance public safety," ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee told FOX 4 News. He went on to highlight the operation as evidence of the committed efforts by law enforcement to eliminate illegal activities and protect the community.

The individual currently remains in the custody of ICE, awaiting the outcome of removal proceedings. Details surrounding his detention and upcoming legal process have not been made public, and the agencies involved have not provided further commentary on the case.

To help combat criminal operations, ICE encourages people to report any suspicious activities. Information can be relayed anonymously to the ICE Tip Line, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE, (1-866-2423) or via the online tip form. Further insights into ICE HSI's efforts to ramp up public safety in Central and South Texas areas can be found by following their social media handle @HSI_SanAntonio, as per their instructions.