Overview
Tren de Aragua (TdA), a criminal organization originating from Venezuela, has expanded its operations across Latin America and into the United States, evolving into a transnational criminal organization (TCO). With over 5,000 members, the gang is involved in a wide array of illicit activities, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, and violent crime (Finance Colombia, 2023.). TdA's exploitation of the Venezuelan migrant crisis has facilitated its infiltration of U.S. cities, where it engages in both organized and violent crimes (El País, 2023). The gang's growing presence across states such as Colorado, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Georgia has made it a significant public safety concern (New York Post, 2024).
Expansion and Activities in the U.S.
Tren de Aragua has established a significant foothold in several major U.S. cities, exploiting vulnerabilities in migrant communities and operating in key regions.
Colorado (Denver and Aurora Areas): In Colorado, TdA's presence has been highlighted by a series of violent incidents, including an armed takeover of apartment complexes in Aurora, which drew national attention due to the gang's bold tactics (Texas Border Business, 2024.; The Gazette, 2024.). Local authorities are continuing investigations into crimes linked to the gang, which include shootings, extortion, and the control of criminal enterprises in the Denver metro area (NBC Chicago, 2024.).
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