Venezuelan Anti-Tren Gang Poses Growing Rural America Threat, Expert Warns

A new Venezuelan gang called Anti-Tren, formed mainly by former members of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang, is emerging as a potentially more violent threat, particularly targeting rural America. Federal indictments unsealed recently charge 21 individuals with drug trafficking, prostitution, and violent crimes to maintain territorial control, often directed against Tren de Aragua members. Expert Robert Charles, a former U.S. State Department official, warns that Anti-Tren seeks to exploit areas with minimal law enforcement, such as rural states like Maine, where criminal activities can be expanded with less risk. The gang is also involved in sex trafficking, armed robberies, and drug smuggling, taking advantage of vulnerable populations including the homeless. Charles emphasizes the need for swift action to contain the group's growth before it gains a stronger foothold in the U.S. rural landscape. The emerging gang's intent to assert dominance through violence echoes patterns seen in other violent gangs like MS-13, raising concern about escalating criminal activity.