Official announcements from the U.S. government or Homeland Security

Tren de Aragua Gang, Designated a Transnational Criminal Organization, Expands Human Trafficking Operations in Tennessee and 16 U.S. States

Nov 19, 2024, 11:46 AM

The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua has been identified as a growing threat in the United States, particularly in Tennessee, where it has established human trafficking rings in cities including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has reported that Tren de Aragua, recently designated as a transnational criminal organization by the Biden administration, is expanding its operations throughout the state. This gang, which has been linked to violent crimes, is now active in at least 16 states across the U.S., according to Homeland Security. The states include Virginia, Montana, Wyoming, New York, New Jersey, California, Florida, Illinois, Georgia, Louisiana, Nevada, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Lawmakers have expressed alarm over the gang's activities, with some calling for immediate action to deport its members. The gang's presence has raised significant concerns regarding national security and public safety, as it has been involved in theft schemes and violent confrontations with law enforcement. Recent reports indicate that members of Tren de Aragua have been repeatedly arrested in New York City but released due to local sanctuary laws, highlighting the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing the gang's activities.