New Sanctions Target Tren de Aragua Leaders

On Thursday, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) from the Ministry of Finance sanctioned Hector Rusten Guerrero Flores, also known as “Ninho Guerrero,” along with five other leaders and affiliates of Tren de Aragua.

This criminal group, identified as a foreign terrorist organization by the State Department in February, originated in Venezuela and has garnered a significant membership base, reportedly numbering in the thousands.

Guerrero, 42, allegedly transformed from a prison gang involved in intimidation and bribery into a powerful organization posing a danger to public safety across the Western Hemisphere.

The Treasury Department is not only imposing sanctions but also offering rewards of up to $5 million for information that leads to Guerrero’s arrest and conviction.

The Gang’s Impact

Previously, the White House noted that several gang members have crossed into the United States illegally and exhibited hostile behaviors. Tren de Aragua is reportedly engaged in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and exploitation of vulnerable populations.

The sanctions freeze any assets owned by the designated individuals in the U.S. and also prevent anyone from conducting business with them, unless specifically authorized. Violations may result in severe penalties for financial institutions, which could also face secondary sanctions.

Besides Guerrero, other sanctioned members include representatives involved in the group’s illegal operations in Venezuela, such as:

• Johann Jose Romero, known as “Johann Petrica,” is allegedly overseeing illegal mining for Tren de Aragua and has been accused of supplying military-grade weapons.
• Josue Angel Santana Pena, referred to as “Santanita,” is linked to a history of violent offenses and helped run Tren de Aragua from within prison.
• Wilmer Jose Perez Castillo, known as “Wilmar Guayaval,” is thought to lead drug trafficking operations and may have been involved in the murders of law enforcement officials.
• Wendy Marburies Rios Gomez, Guerrero’s wife, faces accusations related to financial crimes associated with the organization’s activities.
• Felix Anner Castillo London, aka “Pure Arnel,” is believed to head a cell known as “Los Gallegos,” which is suspected of involvement in murder, trafficking, and other serious offenses.

Today’s actions underscore the urgency in addressing the threats posed by leaders like Guerrero. The government is committed to countering Tren de Aragua’s impact and ensuring the safety of communities.