Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is on high alert as members of a dangerous Venezuelan prison gang, Tren de Aragua, are making their way into the United States through the southern border. The gang, known for its violent activities and expansion into other countries in South and Central America, is now trying to establish a presence in the U.S.
Recent reports have linked the brother of a suspect in the killing of Georgia student Laken Riley to the gang. Both the suspect and his brother entered the U.S. illegally from Venezuela. Additionally, two suspects in the assault of two NYPD officers were revealed to be members of Tren de Aragua.
Despite the efforts of federal authorities to deport these gang members, Venezuela is currently refusing to take them back. This has posed a significant challenge for CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who are trying to address the growing threat posed by the gang.
The FBI has also expressed concerns that members of Tren de Aragua could potentially team up with the notorious MS-13 gang, further escalating the violence and criminal activities in the U.S.
While the U.S. administration had started returning illegal immigrants from Venezuela directly to the socialist dictatorship as a deterrent, recent reports indicate that deportation flights have been halted due to economic sanctions imposed on Venezuela.
The situation has raised questions about the effectiveness of current immigration strategies and the need for stronger measures to address the influx of gang members and criminals entering the country illegally.
As the authorities continue to grapple with the challenges posed by the Venezuelan gang members, the safety and security of communities along the southern border remain a top priority.