Official announcements from the U.S. Department of Justice or Colombian authorities.

Colombia Arrests Tren de Aragua Leader Jeison Alexander Lorca Salazar Amid U.S. Concerns Over Gang in 16 States

Nov 24, 2024, 02:00 PM

Colombian and Venezuelan authorities have arrested Jeison Alexander Lorca Salazar, the alleged second-in-command of the Tren de Aragua gang, a violent organization originally from Venezuela. This arrest is part of a broader effort to combat the gang, which has reportedly expanded its influence into the United States, infiltrating 16 states. The gang's presence in the U.S. has raised concerns, particularly as former President Donald Trump has vowed to deport members of Tren de Aragua, who entered the country under policies from the Biden administration that halted deportation flights for Venezuelans. The gang's activities have been linked to increased violence and criminal operations across the region, prompting international cooperation in law enforcement efforts.