In an operation led by Kash Patel, the FBI has made significant arrests, detaining numerous members of the “anti-tren” gang. This group is a splinter faction of the Venezuelan criminal organization Tren de Aragua, accused of drug and weapon trafficking.
A press release from June 30 indicates that these gang members were in the U.S. unlawfully when they were intercepted by the FBI in Houston.
“The goal of Operation Back America is to confront criminal organizations operating across borders to prevent them from establishing a presence in our communities and jeopardizing public safety,” the press release stated.
The Department of Justice noted that charges against 14 members of the anti-tren gang involve conspiracy to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine. Allegations suggest that two groups arranged to split the payment upfront, agreeing each would transport cocaine in exchange for $15,000.
The 14 accused could face life sentences and hefty fines, possibly reaching $10 million. Meanwhile, five others face additional charges related to firearms possession and could face up to 15 years in prison.
In a separate incident, a 25-year-old Venezuelan named Jose Miguel Briceno was reportedly injured during mass shootings in a Houston bar. Briceno is also facing charges for unlawful ammunition possession, with penalties potentially up to $250,000 and 15 years in prison.
The investigation received support from various agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and local police departments.
This series of arrests is part of a bigger initiative titled Take Back America, aiming to “repel illegal immigration threats, eliminate cartel influence, and safeguard communities from violent offenders.”
U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjay emphasized that efforts in the Southern District are focused on securing borders and combating violent crime. “This incident illustrates our dual priorities,” he noted.
FBI Special Agent Douglas Williams described the operation as one of the largest crackdowns on suspected anti-tren members. He mentioned that those arrested are believed to have engaged in violent conflicts with rival gang members, which included multiple shootings at local venues. Thankfully, these individuals are now in federal custody, facing serious charges.
