From Venezuela to the United States, the Tren de Aragua, one of the most dangerous criminal organizations in Latin America, is causing alarm.
With its international expansion, this group is leaving a trail of violence and fear in its wake.
What is Tren de Aragua?
El Tren de Aragua is a criminal organization that originated in the Venezuelan state of Aragua and has evolved into a transnational criminal network with more than 5,000 members.
Founded around 2009-2010, the gang initially operated from the Tocorón prison, which served as its headquarters under the leadership of Héctor Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, alias “Niño Guerrero.
Taking advantage of the Venezuelan migration crisis, Tren de Aragua has extended its influence to countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia, Panama, Costa Rica, Mexico and, more recently, the United States.
Their criminal activities range from drug and arms trafficking to human trafficking, forced prostitution, kidnapping, extortion and money laundering.
It arrival in the United States
Although its presence in the United States is relatively recent, authorities have detected Tren de Aragua activities in cities such as Chicago (Illinois), New York (New York), Aurora (Colorado), El Paso (Texas) and Miami (Florida).
In Chicago, the gang first appeared in October 2023, and in New York it has been linked to crimes such as shootings, shoplifting, forced prostitution, extortion and drug trafficking.
In addition, in Aurora, Colorado, there have been reports of attempted apartment invasions by armed members of the group.
Designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to designate several gangs and cartels, including Tren de Aragua, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs).
This designation, made official on February 20, 2025, allows the U.S. government to apply stricter measures against these organizations, including economic sanctions and increased law enforcement powers.
Designation of the group as a Foreign Terrorist Organization is a significant step in combating its influence
QuéOnnda.com
Why is the Hispanic community concerned?
The expansion of Tren de Aragua in the United States raises concerns in Hispanic communities, especially among Venezuelan migrants who could be vulnerable to exploitation by the gang.
In addition, the presence of this organization could increase stigmatization and negative perceptions towards Latino immigrants in general.
It is essential that communities stay informed and collaborate with authorities to report suspicious activities and protect themselves from potential threats.
Response from the U.S. authorities
Federal agencies, such as the FBI, have stepped up their operations to dismantle Tren de Aragua networks in the United States, the New York Post reported.
For example, in San Antonio, Texas, federal agents arrested Yuribetzi Del Valle Gómez Machuca for her alleged involvement in a sex trafficking ring linked to the Aragua Train.
In addition, more rigorous interviews of Venezuelan migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border have been implemented to identify possible gang members.
What you can do
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The expansion of Tren de Aragua from Venezuela to the United States represents a growing threat that requires a coordinated response between authorities and affected communities.
It is critical that Hispanic communities remain vigilant, informed and actively collaborate with authorities to ensure their safety and well-being.
Prevention and cooperation are key tools to prevent groups like the Aragua Train from gaining ground.
Find out more at QuéOnnda.com.
