
Federal agents apprehended nearly 50 alleged members of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua in Colorado, linked to “pink cocaine” distribution across the nation.
Quick Takes
- Approximately 50 individuals arrested in Adams County, Colorado during a drug trafficking raid.
- Suspects linked to Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, currently in DEA and ICE custody.
- Operation part of nationwide “Return to Sender” initiative targeting criminal migrants.
- Raid resulted in seizure of cash, weapons, and drugs, including “pink cocaine.”
- Similar operations conducted across the U.S., focusing on sanctuary cities.
Nationwide Crackdown on Tren de Aragua Gang
In a sweeping operation that has sent shockwaves through criminal networks, federal agents have apprehended nearly 50 alleged members of the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua in Aurora, Colorado. This arrest marks a significant milestone in “Operation Return to Sender,” a nationwide initiative aimed at removing illegal immigrants with criminal records and enhancing community safety across the United States.
The operation, spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), targeted a “makeshift nightclub” in Adams County, just outside Denver. During the raid, authorities seized a substantial cache of illicit drugs, weapons, and cash, dealing a significant blow to the gang’s operations in the area.
“Pink Cocaine” and Criminal Activities
The Tren de Aragua gang has been linked to the widespread distribution of a dangerous substance known on the streets as “pink cocaine.” This drug, along with other illicit substances, weapons, and cash, was confiscated during the raid. The gang’s activities have been a source of significant concern for local authorities, contributing to unsafe conditions in several apartment buildings in Aurora.
The operation in Colorado is part of a larger, coordinated effort to crack down on illegal immigrants with criminal backgrounds. Similar raids have been conducted in multiple cities across the U.S., including Chicago and Los Angeles, with a focus on apprehending individuals charged with crimes or ordered deported.
Federal Response and Future Actions
The DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division, in collaboration with metro Denver law enforcement agencies and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), led the operation in Colorado. The arrested individuals have been handed over to ICE for further processing, though details about potential charges or deportations have not been disclosed.
DEA acting administrator Derek Maltz emphasized the federal government’s commitment to addressing the issue of criminal migrants. The operation, dubbed “Return to Sender,” has resulted in arrests across various states, including New York, California, Georgia, and Massachusetts. Notable arrests include individuals with ties to terrorism and violent gangs, such as MS-13 and suspected ISIS affiliates.
Local Impact and Community Response
The impact of the Tren de Aragua gang’s activities on local communities has been significant. In Aurora, city officials have been forced to take over management of affected buildings and set deadlines for residents to vacate due to unsafe conditions. Similarly, the City of Denver announced the closure of a CBZ managed apartment building, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of criminal gang activity in the area.
As the situation continues to develop, federal and local authorities remain committed to their efforts to dismantle criminal networks and ensure community safety. The success of this operation serves as a testament to the ongoing collaboration between various law enforcement agencies in addressing the complex challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations.
Sources:
- DEA seizes drugs, cash and guns from Venezuelan gang in Colorado warehouse raid, officials say
- DEA raids party, arrests nearly 50 undocumented immigrants and TdA gang members
- Feds round up 50 Tren de Aragua members at ‘makeshift nightclub’ in Denver as nationwide ICE raids bust child rapists and suspected ISIS terrorists