The Tren de Aragua (TdA), a notorious Venezuelan gang, has seized control of a minimum of four apartment complexes in San Antonio, Texas. The gang is known for its heavy involvement in drug smuggling, child prostitution, and human trafficking.
A recent police raid at the Palatia Apartments led to the arrest of 19 individuals, including four confirmed gang members.
“One TdA member is a confirmed ‘enforcer’ for that gang,” and “15 were in the country illegally,” officer William McManus said.
“They had women and children and were prostituting the women and the children,” one resident stated.
TdA has been operating in the area for several months, using vacant units for drug dealing and prostitution.
“Prostitution is a big money-maker, and the thing with prostitution is that it brings guys in that they can then sell dope to,” former Colorado ICE director John Fabbricatore stated.
Law enforcement stated that they are aware of additional locations tied to the gang and have plans to make additional arrests.
“We know who you are, and we’re coming for you,” McManus said. “This is just the first place that we’re hitting. We’ve got other places that we’re going to hit.”
