The suspects are reportedly linked to the violent Tren de Aragua (TDA) gang, involved in a confrontation with police in Times Square last Friday.
According to police sources, these individuals were part of an altercation after a boxing match when they attempted to attack officers and steal from them.
Three suspects were apprehended on Sunday, among them a 12-year-old who is said to have been the “ring leader.” Authorities indicated that this group is associated with a faction of TDA known as Diablos de la 42.
Reports suggest that multiple gangs were being pursued due to a wave of robberies in Central Park. They were intercepted mid-robbery when two officers stepped in.
Footage circulating on social media shows young people clashing with police, with some throwing objects while others yelled.
Users online expressed their opinions about the incident, with one remarking on how unfortunate it is that the current political climate has impacted New York City.
Images of the arrested individuals, who were reportedly seen making gang signs, were also shared online.
The charges faced by some suspects include obstructing government administration, rioting, assaulting police officers, and possessing weapons unlawfully.
Interestingly, the 12-year-old was released pending a family court hearing, while the three others remain under investigation.
Authorities reported that all the accused were residing in a hotel in Manhattan, one of the many temporary accommodations for asylum seekers funded by taxpayers.
In February, two TDA members had been arrested in the city on serious drug and firearm charges, but were released without bail. They, too, had been living in shelters that were formerly hotels.
The FBI has indicated that Venezuelan officials may be utilizing TDA members to undermine stability in several countries, including the United States.
Additionally, reports in April noted that the Department of Homeland Security under President Trump had deported numerous illegal gang members classified as foreign terrorists during the initial days of the administration.
