DOJ announces crackdown on Venezuelan gang, more than 25 charged

The Department of Justice on Tuesday announced charges against more than two dozen individuals in a nationwide crackdown against the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

“In a few days, the Justice Department and its partners on Joint Task Force Vulcan carried out a nationwide takedown of vicious Tren de Aragua terrorist networks — depraved, violent offenders who have illegally invaded our country and preyed upon American communities,” acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a statement. “This effort underscores the Trump Administration’s dedication to restoring public safety, dismantling violent firearms and drug trafficking networks, and enforcing law and order.”

The crackdown saw the DOJ seize 18 kg of drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, meth, and others. They also recovered more than 80 firearms and more than $100,000 in cash.

The charges span across six U.S. Attorney's offices, including in Colorado, Southern Florida, Northern Indiana, Middle Tennessee, Western Tennessee, and Eastern Washington.

President Donald Trump campaigned extensively on cracking down on the gang, which is also a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO). He further invoked the Alien Enemies Act to swiftly deport members of the organization.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.