US Government Identifies Venezuela-Based Crime Group

The US government has labeled a Venezuela-based crime organization “Cartel de los Salles,” led by President Nicolas Maduro, who is also linked to global terrorism.

As per a statement from the US Treasury, the Cartel de los Salles, or the Sands cartel, is recognized for supporting foreign terrorist groups, including the violent Tren de Aragua and the infamous Sinaloa Cartel.

“Today’s actions further highlight the illegal Maduro administration’s role in promoting narco-terrorism through groups like Cartel de los Salles,” Treasury Department spokesperson Scott Bescent remarked.

It’s interesting to note that, a year after a disputed election, Maduro continues to face accusations of being a leader among “narcotelorists.”

The Treasury is committed to enforcing the previous administration’s stance of prioritizing American interests, specifically targeting violent organizations like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel alongside the Cartel de los Salles.

The Venezuelan group Tren de Aragua is notorious for various crimes, including human smuggling and drug trafficking. Additionally, the Sinaloa Cartel is notorious for transporting substances like fentanyl into the US.

Interestingly, the Drug Enforcement Bureau recently highlighted its efforts to gather information that could lead to Maduro’s arrest and prosecution.

In January, the US government raised the reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture to $25 million. The US has not recognized Maduro’s presidency since 2019.

In a related note, back in May, the US warned its citizens to avoid travel to Venezuela and its neighboring regions due to high risks such as potential illegal detention, torture, arbitrary legal enforcement, and widespread crime.