By Joanna Putman
Police1
SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Several members of Tren de Aragua gang were arrested in San Antonio following a multi-agency operation at an apartment complex, the San Antonio Police Department said during a news conference.
According to SAPD, officers received multiple complaints from the Palatia Apartment complex involving narcotics violations, human trafficking and threats against apartment staff.
Through investigation, officers learned the area was in control of the Venezuelan prison gang Tren de Aragua, or TDA, SAPD said.
On Oct. 5, SAPD, along with Texas Department of Public Safety, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and members of the Texas Anti-Gang Unit, conducted an operation dubbed “Operation Aurora” at the apartment complex. Approximately 300 vacant apartments were cleared by law enforcement during the operation, SAPD said.
According to SAPD, 20 people have been detained, with four confirmed as members of Tren de Aragua. One of the individuals is identified as a “confirmed enforcer” for the gang. The four members have been taken into custody by Homeland Security and emergency removal operations.
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“Known and suspected gang activity will be investigated and dismantled when found to be operating within the San Antonio community,” San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said. “The safety of our residents and first responders is our top priority.”
The initiative was driven by intelligence gathered by undercover officers at the Migrant Resource Center, according to the SAPD. Tren de Aragua, founded in Venezuela’s state of Aragua, is believed to have infiltrated the U.S. by blending in with undocumented migrants. Authorities suspect the gang’s involvement in prostitution, drug trafficking and other violent crimes in the San Antonio area.
As part of the operation, Homeland Security Enforcement and Removal Operations agents placed ICE detainers on those arrested, according to the report.
“We are on to you, and we are coming for you,” McManus said. “We know who you are, and we are coming for you.”
