A US strike has killed the leader of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, the White House confirmed on Saturday. The operation targeted the head of the transnational criminal organization, which has been linked to human trafficking, extortion, and violent crime across Latin America and the United States.
The strike represents a significant blow to one of the region’s most powerful criminal enterprises, which has expanded its operations beyond Venezuela’s borders in recent years. The group’s network of illicit activities has destabilized communities and challenged law enforcement in multiple countries.
Venezuela’s information ministry reported that during the operation, clashes occurred with members of criminal groups, resulting in the leader being neutralized. The statement did not provide further details on the specific location or nature of the clashes, nor did it confirm US involvement directly.
The White House described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational criminal organizations that threaten US national security. No information was released on the timeline of the strike or any casualties beyond the gang leader.
The US government has previously designated Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization, imposing sanctions on its members and leaders. The group’s influence has grown amid Venezuela’s prolonged economic and political crisis, which has fueled migration and criminal networks.