Violent Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua Indicted in Massive Arms adn Drug trafficking Operation
In a sweeping crackdown, ten alleged members and associates of the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) have been indicted in a sprawling arms and drug trafficking operation spanning at least six states. Prosecutors revealed that the gang had plans to expand its criminal activities internationally, with Colombia as a key target.
The operation,dubbed Operation Train Derail,led to the seizure of 34 illegal firearms,including AR-15 assault rifles and a Glock 9mm modified to function as an automatic weapon. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the severity of the gang’s activities, stating, “The tda gang members where also peddling deadly drugs, including pink cocaine, a designer street drug that includes a mixture of ketamine, MDMA, and ecstasy.”
The arrests were not without incident.In New york City, one of the accused gang members allegedly broke an NYPD officer’s arm during a scuffle while being apprehended. This violent encounter underscores the risky nature of the individuals involved.
all ten suspects, including two women, are migrants from Venezuela who entered the U.S. illegally. Their alleged crimes highlight the growing concern over transnational criminal organizations infiltrating American cities.
The indictment comes amid broader efforts to dismantle the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been described as a “new breed of ghost criminal” by law enforcement officials. The gang’s high-ranking members, including the mother of a child involved in their operations, have been either arrested or are currently on the run following a nationwide sweep [[1]].
The Tren de Aragua gang has also drawn attention from federal authorities, with former President Donald Trump targeting the group as part of his broader crackdown on organized crime [[2]].
Below is a summary of key details from the operation:
| Key Details | Information |
|——————————–|———————————————————————————|
| gang Name | Tren de Aragua (TdA) |
| Number of Indicted Members | 10 |
| Seized Firearms | 34, including AR-15s and a modified Glock 9mm |
| Drugs Seized | Pink cocaine (ketamine, MDMA, ecstasy) |
| Operation Name | Operation Train Derail |
| Expansion Plans | International, targeting Colombia |
The indictment of these gang members marks a significant victory for law enforcement, but it also raises questions about the broader implications of transnational criminal networks operating within the U.S. As authorities continue to dismantle these organizations, the focus remains on preventing their resurgence and protecting communities from their violent activities [[3]].For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage.
Venezuelan Nationals Lead Gun-Running Operation in New York City, Prosecutors Allege
Table of Contents
A gun-running operation allegedly led by Venezuelan nationals has been dismantled in New York City, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. The group, tied to the transnational gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), is accused of trafficking illegal firearms and operating within the city’s immigrant community.
The examination, dubbed Operation Train Derail, was a joint effort between the Queens DA’s Office and the NYPD. It resulted in the arrest of 10 individuals, including two Venezuelan nationals who allegedly spearheaded the operation. the suspects are accused of conspiring to possess and sell illegal firearms, with some facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted.
The Alleged Ringleader and Gang Ties
Enyerbert Blanco, 24, is identified as the alleged ringleader of the operation. Blanco has been in custody in Florida as October,where he faces charges in a seperate human trafficking case involving a 15-year-old girl. According to Katz, Blanco and his associates sought to establish TdA’s presence in New York City while profiting from illegal gun sales.
“We allege that as members and associates,they trafficked weapons and made money in furtherance of TdA’s agenda and as they seek to establish themselves in New York City,we are individually dismantling them,” Katz said.
The Charges and potential Penalties
The 10 individuals face a range of charges, including conspiracy to possess and sell illegal firearms. Five of the suspects are charged with two counts of criminal sale of a firearm, which could result in up to 25 years in prison.The remaining five face firearm possession charges and other crimes, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years.
| Suspect | Charges | Potential Penalty |
|———————–|————————————–|————————|
| Enyerbert Blanco | Human trafficking,firearm sales | Up to 25 years |
| 5 others | Criminal sale of a firearm | Up to 25 years |
| 4 others | Firearm possession,other crimes | Up to 15 years |
The Broader Context
The suspects allegedly entered the U.S. illegally via the southern border, highlighting ongoing concerns about immigration and crime. The case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing transnational criminal organizations operating within immigrant communities.
Katz emphasized the importance of the investigation, stating, “This operation is a testament to the dedication of our law enforcement partners in ensuring the safety of our communities.”
Visual Evidence
Prosecutors released images of the firearms allegedly trafficked by the group, showcasing the scale of the operation.
!Some of the guns the TDA members were running, according to prosecutors
Some of the guns the TDA members were running, according to prosecutors (Queens DA’s Office)
What’s Next?
The case is expected to proceed to trial, where prosecutors will present evidence gathered during the year-long investigation. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases involving transnational gangs are handled in the future.
For more on this story, visit Fox News.
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This article is based exclusively on information from the provided source. For further updates, stay tuned to our coverage.NOEM SAYS ‘WORST OF THE WORST’ ARRESTED IN NYC RAID TARGETING CRIMINAL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS
In a significant crackdown on illegal firearms trafficking, authorities have arrested eight individuals linked to a brazen gun-running operation spanning multiple states, including New york, Texas, Florida, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and colorado. The operation,described as highly organized and entrepreneurial,targeted criminal illegal immigrants involved in the illicit sale of firearms.
The Arrests and Their Scope
Four suspects are currently in custody in New York City, while four others have been apprehended outside the state—two in Texas and two in Florida. Though, several individuals remain at large, highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigation.
According to officials, the group operated with alarming efficiency. ”This group was very entrepreneurial.They really made sure that this business was run like a clock,” said Katz,the lead investigator. The suspects allegedly relied on stolen firearms obtained through burglaries and car break-ins in other states, using rental vehicles to transport the weapons along the so-called ”iron pipeline” to New York City.
Brazen Firearm Deals
The group’s operations were marked by audacity. In one instance, a suspect transported an AR-15 wrapped in a black garbage bag for sale in the Bronx County.”This buy occurred at 3:45 p.m. in front of a residential building,” Katz revealed.Between October 30 and December 10, five additional firearm transactions took place inside a Target parking lot in College Point, Queens. The going rate for an assault weapon ranged from $2,500 to $2,800,while loaded operable handguns sold for between $1,200 and $1,800.
Potential International Expansion
The group’s success in New York City reportedly led them to discuss expanding their operations internationally. “They even discussed potentially smuggling them into Colombia due to the success of this investigation,” Katz noted.
ICE’s Role and Next Steps
While the investigation is being treated primarily as a gun-running case, it remains unclear whether ICE will deport the suspects. Katz emphasized the focus on dismantling the criminal network rather than addressing immigration status at this stage.
Key Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Arrest Locations | NYC (4), Texas (2), Florida (2) |
| Firearm Prices | Assault weapons: $2,500-$2,800; Handguns: $1,200-$1,800 |
| operation Span | NY, TX, FL, CT, PA, CO |
| Potential Expansion | Discussions of smuggling firearms to Colombia |
A Call to Action
This case underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of gun trafficking laws and enhanced interstate collaboration. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help curb the spread of illegal firearms.
As the investigation continues, the arrests serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by organized criminal networks operating across state and international borders.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Fox News.
NYPD Cracks Down on Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua in Major Bust
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has made significant strides in combating the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TDA), known for its involvement in murder, trafficking, and mayhem.In a recent operation in Queens, several suspected gang members were indicted, marking a critical step in dismantling the transnational criminal organization.
The Operation and Key Arrests
The bust in Queens followed a series of coordinated efforts by the NYPD, the drug Enforcement Governance (DEA), and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Among those indicted are Wrallan Meza, 27; Leoner Aguilera, 21; Brayant Aguilar, 21; Rosemary Sanchez, 24; Enyerling Zambrano, 29; Alejandro Rondon, 19; and Oscar Sosa, 31. These individuals are accused of participating in a range of criminal activities, including murder, trafficking, and extortion.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized the severity of the threat posed by TDA, stating, “TDA is a dangerous transnational gang that has specialized in murder, trafficking, and mayhem. the NYPD will always work with our federal and our local partners to take down international gangs like TDA,who would wreak havoc on this city.”
Connections to Other Crimes
The Queens operation came just a day after immigration raids in the Bronx,where Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco,26,a suspected TDA member,was apprehended. zambrano-Pacheco is wanted by police in Aurora, Colorado, for first-degree burglary and menacing with a firearm. The charges stem from an August 18 incident where he and five other armed men allegedly broke into an apartment at gunpoint.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed that Zambrano-Pacheco is also linked to a gun weapons exchange and was attempting to purchase grenades. He faces additional charges of kidnapping, extortion, and menacing.
the Impact of Tren de Aragua
Tren de Aragua has gained notoriety for its violent tactics and transnational operations. The gang’s activities have extended beyond Venezuela, posing a significant threat to communities in the United States. The recent arrests highlight the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the gang’s influence and protect public safety.
| Key Details of the Operation |
|———————————-|
| Location | Queens,New York |
| Gang Name | Tren de Aragua (TDA) |
| Key Arrests | Wrallan Meza,Leoner Aguilera,Brayant Aguilar,Rosemary sanchez,Enyerling Zambrano,Alejandro Rondon,Oscar Sosa |
| Charges | Murder,trafficking,extortion,kidnapping,menacing |
| Collaborating Agencies | NYPD,DEA,HSI |
Looking ahead
The injured officer involved in the operation is set to undergo surgery,and separate charges will be filed in connection with the incident. Commissioner Tisch reaffirmed the NYPD’s commitment to working with federal and local partners to dismantle international gangs like TDA.
As the investigation continues,law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to disrupt the gang’s operations and bring its members to justice. The recent busts serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against transnational crime and the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring public safety.for the latest updates on this developing story,download the Fox Business app and stay informed.
Michael Dorgan is a writer for Fox News Digital and fox Business. You can send tips to [email protected] and follow him on Twitter NYPD Cracks Down on Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua in Major Bust
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has made notable strides in combating the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TDA), known for its involvement in murder, trafficking, and mayhem. In a recent operation in Queens, several suspected gang members were indicted, marking a critical step in dismantling the transnational criminal organization. The bust in Queens followed a series of coordinated efforts by the NYPD,the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA),and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Among those indicted are wrallan Meza, 27; Leoner Aguilera, 21; Brayant Aguilar, 21; Rosemary Sanchez, 24; Enyerling Zambrano, 29; Alejandro Rondon, 19; and Oscar Sosa, 31.These individuals are accused of participating in a range of criminal activities, including murder, trafficking, and extortion. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized the severity of the threat posed by TDA, stating, “TDA is a perilous transnational gang that has specialized in murder, trafficking, and mayhem. The NYPD will always work with our federal and local partners to take down international gangs like TDA, who woudl wreak havoc on this city.” The Queens operation came just a day after immigration raids in the Bronx, where Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco, 26, a suspected TDA member, was apprehended. Zambrano-pacheco is wanted by police in Aurora, Colorado, for first-degree burglary and menacing with a firearm. The charges stem from an August 18 incident where he and five other armed men allegedly broke into an apartment at gunpoint. Homeland Security secretary Kristi noem revealed that Zambrano-Pacheco is also linked to a gun weapons exchange and was attempting to purchase grenades. He faces additional charges of kidnapping, extortion, and menacing. Tren de Aragua has gained notoriety for its violent tactics and transnational operations. The gang’s activities have extended beyond Venezuela, posing a significant threat to communities in the United States. The recent arrests highlight the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the gang’s influence and protect public safety. The injured officer involved in the operation is set to undergo surgery, and separate charges will be filed in connection with the incident. Commissioner Tisch reaffirmed the NYPD’s commitment to working with federal and local partners to dismantle international gangs like TDA. As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to disrupt the gang’s operations and bring its members to justice. the recent busts serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against transnational crime and the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring public safety. For the latest updates on this developing story, download the Fox Business app and stay informed. Michael Dorgan is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. You can send tips to [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @MDorgan.The Operation and Key Arrests
Connections to Other Crimes
The Impact of Tren de Aragua
Key Details of the Operation
Location
queens, New York
Gang Name
Tren de Aragua (TDA)
Key arrests
Wrallan Meza, Leoner Aguilera, Brayant Aguilar, Rosemary Sanchez, Enyerling Zambrano, Alejandro Rondon, Oscar Sosa
Charges
Murder, trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, menacing
Collaborating Agencies
NYPD, DEA, HSI
Looking Ahead
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