A Venezuelan national, aged 34, believed to be associated with the Tren de Aragua prison gang, was apprehended on February 6 during a regular enforcement operation, as reported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The arrest was carried out in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the Texas Department of Public Safety.
According to ICE, the person, whose identity has not been disclosed, had a previous conviction for trying to smuggle firearms out of the United States. “The capture of an alleged member of the TdA gang, who was previously convicted of firearms smuggling, is a major triumph in our continuous endeavors to improve public safety,” stated Craig Larrabee, the Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio. “This arrest demonstrates the dedicated efforts of our law enforcement agencies in eradicating criminal behavior and protecting our communities.”
The suspect will stay in ICE custody while removal proceedings are ongoing. ICE urges people to report any suspicious criminal activity through the ICE Tip Line, which is available 24/7. You can call 866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-2423) or fill out the online tip form. To learn more about ICE HSI’s efforts to enhance public safety in Central and South Texas communities, visit their Twitter page at @HSI_SanAntonio.