Ten alleged members or associates of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua have been indicted in New York City on gun trafficking, drug, and conspiracy charges following an extensive undercover investigation, authorities announced Wednesday.
Criminal Network Spanning Multiple States and Beyond
The indictments, unsealed by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, follow an eight-month undercover operation conducted by the New York City Police Department and other law enforcement agencies. Prosecutors say the gang operated an illegal gun trafficking network that stretched across multiple states and sought to expand internationally, including into Colombia.
Six of the individuals charged in the 120-count indictment were taken into custody on Tuesday. Two were arrested in Texas and Florida, while four others were apprehended in New York. During the operation, one of the suspects attempted to escape, slamming a door on an NYPD officer and severely fracturing the officer’s arm.
Tren de Aragua’s Rise in the U.S.
Tren de Aragua, originally from Venezuela, has gained notoriety for its involvement in kidnappings, extortion, drug smuggling, and human trafficking across the Western Hemisphere. The gang’s growing presence in the U.S. became more widely known after a security camera captured a group of heavily armed men forcing their way into an apartment in Aurora, Colorado. Some of those involved were later identified as Tren de Aragua members.
According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, all ten indicted individuals entered the country illegally in 2023. He stated that law enforcement has identified at least 67 members of the gang operating in New York City, where they have been linked to organized retail theft, street robberies, and violent crimes, including using motorized scooters to snatch cell phones.
Gun and Drug Trafficking Operation
Authorities say the gang used the messaging app WhatsApp to coordinate gun sales, often making transactions in public places or concealing firearms in trash bags. Prosecutors allege that some of the trafficked weapons were stolen from other states. The investigation led to the seizure of 34 illegal firearms, including an AR-style rifle, a modified automatic weapon, and two ghost guns—untraceable firearms commonly used in violent crimes.
During the undercover operation, officers also purchased 48 grams of pink cocaine, also known as “tusi,” a powerful mix of cocaine, MDMA, and ketamine.
Ringleaders and Ongoing Investigation
One of the individuals indicted is 24-year-old Enyerbert Blanco, who is accused of leading the operation. Blanco was already in custody on separate charges. Two additional suspects remain at large.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz commended law enforcement for preventing the gang from establishing a larger presence in New York City. She stated that the investigation successfully removed dangerous weapons from the streets and disrupted a growing criminal network.