FBI Adds Venezuelan Gang Leader to Most Wanted List

A Venezuelan gang leader has been placed on the FBI’s list of ten most wanted fugitives, amidst claims of strong ties between authorities and drug trafficking along with terrorism. Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, who is linked to the Tren de Aragua (TDA) gang, has been officially recognized by the U.S. Treasury Department.

The FBI’s Houston office describes Mosquera Serrano as a violent figure within the TDA, which has now become notorious. He faces serious charges that include conspiracy to facilitate cocaine trafficking from Colombia to the U.S. and providing support to designated foreign terrorist organizations.

At 37 years old, he stands as the 536th individual to be added to the FBI’s list since it began in 1950. The TDA has now become an organization labeled as a foreign terrorist group by federal officials.

Douglas Williams, the special agent in charge of FBI Houston, stated, “The borders won’t shield him from justice. With public assistance, we will dismantle the TDA and halt their trail of crime that has crossed borders.”

The Tren de Aragua first emerged from a Venezuelan prison before expanding into what is now one of the most formidable gangs in the Americas. Authorities warn that its members have spread across Latin America and into the U.S., involving themselves in various forms of organized crime, including drug and human trafficking.

The U.S. Treasury has also placed Mosquera Serrano on its list due to his involvement with the TDA. According to Treasury Secretary Scott Becent, the group is focused on instilling fear in communities and facilitating illegal drug trafficking, underscored by leadership figures like Mosquera Serrano.

An arrest warrant has been issued for him in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This manhunt involves various agencies, including the DEA, Homeland Security, and others, highlighting a significant coordinated effort across borders. The FBI also has resources in Bogotá assisting with the case.

Mosquera Serrano is connected to other fugitives involved with international crime organizations, underscoring the ongoing threat that such groups pose. The FBI has reported that about 497 of the 536 fugitives have been captured or placed, benefiting from more than 160 public tips.

The State Department is offering up to $3 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction. The FBI encourages anyone with information about Mosquera Serrano to come forward, emphasizing that tips can be submitted anonymously.