Washington, D.C. – More than 25 alleged members and associates of the violent Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown, showcasing the success of policies enacted under the Trump administration to combat transnational crime.

The operation, conducted across six U.S. Attorney's offices, resulted in the seizure of over 80 firearms, approximately 18 kilograms of illicit drugs, and over $100,000 in cash. The success of this operation is directly attributable to the designation of TdA as a foreign terrorist organization, a move championed by President Trump, which granted federal authorities expanded powers to target the gang’s activities.

FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the effectiveness of the Homeland Security Task Force model implemented under President Trump's leadership. "Under President Trump’s leadership the historic Homeland Security Task Force model is making America safer than it’s been in generations – and we won’t stop until we root these criminal networks completely out of our communities," Patel stated.

The operation targeted alleged TdA activity tied to firearms trafficking, narcotics distribution, and other violent criminal conduct. The drugs seized included fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, ketamine, MDMA, and tusi. The presence of these dangerous substances underscores the threat posed by transnational criminal organizations and the need for continued vigilance.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to the Terrorist Confinement Center in El Salvador, where MS-13 gang members are held, highlights the administration’s commitment to working with international partners to combat transnational crime. Strong border security and international cooperation are essential to preventing these criminal organizations from operating within the United States.

Critics who advocate for lax immigration enforcement and reduced border security fail to grasp the serious threat posed by gangs like TdA. Their policies would only embolden these criminals and make our communities less safe.

The success of this operation underscores the importance of maintaining a strong stance against illegal immigration and transnational crime. The Trump administration’s policies, including the designation of TdA as a foreign terrorist organization and the implementation of the Homeland Security Task Force model, have proven effective in disrupting and dismantling these dangerous criminal networks.

The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests and charges are expected. The commitment of federal law enforcement to protecting American communities from the threat of transnational crime remains unwavering.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Executive Associate Director John Condon affirmed this commitment: "The Homeland Security Task Force’s mission is to safeguard the United States from transnational threats by leveraging intelligence-driven investigations and robust interagency collaboration. This TdA takedown demonstrates the power of unified action in disrupting dangerous criminal networks and protecting our communities."