Four Tren de Aragua Gang Members Arrested in Texas

On New Year's Eve, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers arrested four confirmed members of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang while they attempted to illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border. The group of 22 migrants, which included individuals from Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela, was intercepted in Val Verde County during Operation Lone Star. Governor Greg Abbott stated that these arrests reflect Texas's commitment to combatting the growing threat posed by TdA, which he has designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The arrested gang members were identified through tattoos and social media activity confirming their affiliation with the violent organization. Abbott emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure the border and protect Texans from such criminal groups, announcing a reward for information leading to further arrests. The TdA gang, which originated in Venezuela, is known for its involvement in violent crime and drug trafficking.