ICE Raids Target Over 100 Venezuelan Gang Members in Colorado

Federal agents, including ICE and the DEA, conducted extensive raids in metro Denver and Aurora targeting over 100 members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The operations involved heavily armed agents breaking down doors and executing search warrants in multiple locations, including the Cedar Run Apartments, where they were also investigating drug-related activities linked to recent overdoses. Acting ICE Director Caleb Vitello emphasized that the raids were necessary due to a lack of cooperation from local jails, prompting agents to search communities instead. Critics, including immigrant advocates, expressed concern for residents' rights, while volunteers from the Colorado Rapid Response Network were present to inform individuals of their legal rights during the operations. The raids come amid growing scrutiny of the gang's influence in the area, which has been a focal point of political discussions regarding immigration and public safety. The exact number of arrests remains unclear as investigations continue.