U.S. law enforcement strikes hard against Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua in major 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.
- Arrests highlight the gang’s infiltration of U.S. cities through migrant networks.
- Operation underscores cross-jurisdictional efforts to combat transnational crime.
- Political debate intensifies over border security and sanctuary city policies.
Coordinated Raids Dismantle Tren de Aragua Network
In a sweeping operation, U.S. law enforcement agencies have dealt a significant blow to the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). 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 reach across multiple states.
The operation in New York City led to the capture of several high-profile suspects, including Jarwin Valero-Calderon, who was tracked via an ankle monitor to a Bronx hideout near a daycare center. Valero-Calderon had a history of criminal activity across multiple states and had previously been ordered deported. Other arrested members, such as Angel Gabriel Marquez Rodriguez and Jhonaiker Alexander Gil Cardozo, also faced prior criminal charges.
Gang’s Violent Activities Exposed
The Tren de Aragua gang, originating from Venezuelan prisons, has been involved in a wide array of criminal activities, including murders, assaults, robberies, and gun smuggling. The group has reportedly infiltrated the United States through migrant networks seeking asylum since 2022, exploiting vulnerabilities in the immigration system.
“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,” said Joe Borelli, emphasizing the need for stronger cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
In Aurora, Colorado, the gang’s brutality was evident in a home invasion described by Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain as “torture.” The victims, also Venezuelan immigrants, suffered severe violence, with one being stabbed. This incident underscores the gang’s tendency to prey on their own communities, exploiting the reluctance of undocumented immigrants to report crimes.
Political Ramifications and Border Security Debate
The successful raids have reignited discussions about border security and sanctuary city policies. New York City Mayor Eric Adams met with incoming border czar Tom Homan to address migrant criminal activity, signaling a potential shift in approach. Critics of current policies, including Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, have called for increased cooperation between local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“Mayor Adams should use every resource available to end the city law that precludes the NYPD from cooperating with ICE because it is specific groups like this that make me question the sanity of people who seek to protect them and ensure they remain here,” Borelli stated, highlighting the political tension surrounding the issue.
The gang’s activities have also become a focal point in broader discussions about U.S. southern border management under the Biden administration. The issue has gained national attention, with President-elect Donald Trump mentioning the gang during a debate as an example of border security concerns.
Ongoing Challenges and Law Enforcement Response
As authorities celebrate these significant arrests, they acknowledge the ongoing challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations. The Tren de Aragua gang has established a presence in at least 16 states, with a juvenile offshoot known as “Diablos de la 42” operating in New York, exploiting lenient juvenile justice laws.
Law enforcement officials stress the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation across jurisdictions to combat these emerging threats. The recent operations demonstrate the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in dismantling criminal networks that pose significant risks to public safety and national security.
As the legal proceedings against the arrested gang members unfold, authorities remain committed to rooting out Tren de Aragua’s presence in the United States. The success of these raids serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against transnational crime and the need for comprehensive strategies to address both border security and internal law enforcement challenges.
Sources:
- Tren de Aragua gang members arrested in NYC apartment next to daycare facility
- Feds raid migrant Tren de Aragua gang house in NYC — after tracking GPS ankle monitor to hideout
- Scores of Tren de Aragua members arrested in Colorado, New York City during federal crackdown
