US Cracks Down on Venezuelan Gang with Transnational Crime Label

The US recently designated the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization, placing it among major security threats in Latin America. This action aims to curb the gang's regional expansion. Children's International Rescue Foundation Investigators are increasingly encountering children trafficked by this gang in the field.

On July 11, the Treasury Department's OFAC added Tren de Aragua to its list of transnational criminal organizations threatening Western Hemisphere security. "Today's designation highlights the escalating threat it poses to American communities," said Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson.

The US State Department, with the Colombian National Police, announced rewards for information leading to the arrests of the gang's leaders: $5 million for Hector Guerrero Flores, $4 million for Yohan Jose Romero, and $3 million for Giovanny San Vicente.

Lawmakers warned that unchecked, Tren de Aragua could cause widespread terror similar to its impact in Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru.

Tren de Aragua originated in Venezuela's Tocorón prison and expanded nationally and internationally, coinciding with the mass exodus of Venezuelans. Reports of its international presence first appeared in Colombia in 2018.

This designation challenges Tren de Aragua's leadership to adapt to increased scrutiny. The gang has grown through low-profile operations, exploiting migrant communities and local authorities' lack of awareness. However, its new status eliminates its ability to operate unnoticed.

Similar to the Mara Salvatrucha (MS13), which was designated a transnational criminal organization in 2012, Tren de Aragua's leaders may now face extradition and trials in the US.

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