Law enforcement officials in Colorado are sounding the alarm about a potential gang war brewing in Aurora.
The Venezuelan super gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) has reportedly taken control of several apartment complexes and is arming itself to challenge established local gangs.
According to a report by Daily Mail Online, exclusive footage shows a shooting incident at one of the TdA-controlled properties, highlighting the escalating violence.
John Fabbricatore, former director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for Colorado, warns of an impending "big gang war" as TdA rapidly establishes its network in the area. The South American gang, which has infiltrated the United States among the influx of Venezuelan migrants, is now challenging the territorial control of long-established gangs like the Bloods, Crips, and Sureños.
TdA has reportedly seized control of at least three apartment buildings in Aurora, exploiting and terrorizing migrant residents. The gang's activities include prostitution, drug dealing, extortion, and even child exploitation. Their presence has been marked by violent incidents, including shootings and armed takeovers of properties.
Fabbricatore explains that prostitution serves as a gateway for TdA to expand its criminal enterprise. He states, "Prostitution is a big money-maker, and the thing with prostitution is that it brings guys in that they can then sell dope to."
The gang's rapid establishment in the area has caught federal law enforcement off guard. Retired FBI agent Dan Brunner describes TdA as "MS-13 on steroids," noting their superior organization and efficiency compared to other transnational gangs.
The Aurora Police Department recently announced the arrests of 10 TdA members despite previous denials of a gang problem in the area. However, local authorities face challenges in addressing the growing threat posed by the Venezuelan gang.
Fabbricatore, who is currently running for Congress as a Republican, expresses concern about the potential spread of TdA's influence beyond migrant communities. He warns, "There are some million dollar homes not far from where those apartment complexes are. How long do you think it will be before they go there?"
The presence of TdA has left visible marks on the affected properties. DailyMail.com reported observing gang graffiti covering walls at the Whispering Pines apartments, which Brunner interprets as a clear territorial claim and intimidation tactic.
In July, the U.S. federal government designated Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization (TCO), placing it on par with major Mexican drug cartels and terrorist groups. This classification recognizes the severe threat posed by TdA and its international connections.
Fabbricatore emphasizes the gang's sophisticated structure, stating:
They are a TCO from the bottom to the top, so they have connections. These guys back here are paying somebody back home...to leaders in Venezuela.
The situation in Aurora serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges faced by U.S. law enforcement in dealing with transnational criminal organizations. As TdA continues to expand its operations, authorities are grappling with the need for coordinated efforts to counter its influence and protect vulnerable communities.
The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua has established a strong presence in Aurora, Colorado, taking control of apartment complexes and engaging in various criminal activities. Law enforcement officials warn of an impending gang war as TdA arms itself to challenge established local gangs. The gang's rapid expansion and sophisticated organization have caught authorities off guard, leading to concerns about its potential spread beyond migrant communities. Recent arrests of TdA members highlight the ongoing efforts to combat this emerging threat.
