The borders became open three and a half years ago under the Biden Administration. Venezuelan convicts were released from prisons to become part of the Caravan that came to America. The gangs migrated around the country. Their influence is menacing in many Metropolitan areas.
Arrest Details in Houston
Texas Department of Public Safety agents apprehended Jorgenys Robertson Cova, a 32-year-old linked to the Tren de Aragua gang. He was taken into custody without incident. The operation, conducted in partnership with the Houston Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, highlights ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tackling international crime networks.
Believed to operate in several states, the Tren de Aragua syndicate infiltrates communities through illicit activities, including drug and sex trafficking. Cova’s arrest came on the day of his scheduled asylum hearing, adding complexity to his legal standing. Law enforcement’s ability to apprehend Cova showcases a significant victory in the broader strategy to dismantle these pervasive networks threatening national security.
NEW: DPS Captures Tren de Aragua Gang Member in Houston
A confirmed Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang member is now in custody following his arrest on Monday, Oct. 7, by @TxDPS Special Agents in Houston.
Working in collaboration with the Houston Police Department and U.S. Immigration… pic.twitter.com/RqVhWdKvuj
— Texas DPS (@TxDPS) October 8, 2024
Broader Implications of the Arrest
Additionally, Jorgenys Robertson Cova was wanted in Pearland, Texas, for theft, with tattoos associated with the Tren de Aragua gang signifying his criminal affiliations. These markings, including a five-point crown and a clock with roses, are gang insignias well-known to authorities. Governor Greg Abbott’s Public Safety Office is offering rewards for information leading to further arrests of gang members, acknowledging the threat these criminals pose to public safety.
“public safety threat” and “will remain in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings” – an ERO spokesperson said.
On October 5th, four more gang members were captured as part of a multi-agency operation. Due to Governor Abbotts describing them as terrorists, investigative work continues to crack down on the gang’s influence around Texas. Law enforcement is determined to remove its influence on the state
More arrests of Tren de Aragua in Texas.
Members of this gang are accused of murders in Texas and other states.
We will track down this vicious gang wherever they are, arrest them, and put them in jail. https://t.co/Svd4L7JOcV
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) October 9, 2024
Efforts to Combat the Tren de Aragua
The Tren de Aragua’s proliferating activities extend beyond local incidents. Many believe their work involves international interactions. U.S. sanctions imposed in July acknowledge their involvement in human trafficking and other severe crimes. Law enforcement’s focused operations reflect a committed stance against this threat. There is hope within law enforcement that their efforts will dismantle Tren’s organization.
“The Texas Department of Public Safety arrested two members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) in San Antonio last week, according to a news release.”
The arrest underscores the importance of sustained vigilance and strategic enforcement actions to ensure public safety. Coordination among law enforcement at all levels remains crucial to eliminating entrenched criminal networks posing significant cross-border risks.
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