The notorious Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua (TdA), once a localized threat, escalated into a national security concern. Initially emerging in El Paso, the gang's violent activities prompted warnings from the FBI and Border Patrol, which unfortunately went largely unheeded until TdA's influence spread across the United States.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Border Patrol and FBI officials in El Paso recounted their early encounters with TdA. Interim Chief Patrol Agent Walter Slosar emphasized the immediate recognition of TdA as distinct from typical street gangs, highlighting their extreme violence and malicious intent. This collaborative effort between agencies served as the initial alarm bell regarding the emerging threat.

A significant surge in Venezuelan migrants crossing the border, particularly in the El Paso sector, created an opportunity for criminals to blend in with the large influx of people. Agent Slosar noted that thousands of daily crossings provided cover for TdA members to infiltrate the U.S. unnoticed.

Recognizing the growing problem, Border Patrol collaborated with the FBI's El Paso field office to gather intelligence on TdA. Faced with limited cooperation from Venezuelan authorities, agents had to build their knowledge base from scratch, conducting extensive interviews with individuals crossing the border. This painstaking process, described as an uphill battle, eventually revealed key details about the gang's operations and identifying characteristics, such as distinctive tattoos.

While comparisons have been made to MS-13, FBI Special Agent in Charge John Morales stressed that TdA operates in a unique and more complex manner. Their network of extortion and exploitation sets them apart, making them a different kind of threat.

TdA's criminal activities range from drug and human trafficking to extortion and modern slavery, demonstrating a complete disregard for human life and the rule of law. Border Patrol Special Operations Supervisor Hamid Nikseresht described their willingness to engage in any form of violence for profit.

Despite early warnings, TdA's threat wasn't fully acknowledged until their operations expanded nationwide. The gang's criminal activities at El Paso's Gateway Hotel, which eventually led to its closure, highlighted the severity of the situation. Agent Morales emphasized the real and pervasive nature of the threat, urging the public to recognize the danger posed by TdA.

As TdA spread across the country, exploiting vulnerable populations in various cities, higher-level officials finally recognized the urgent need for action. The Trump administration subsequently prioritized dismantling the gang, empowering law enforcement agencies to fully address the threat. This marked a turning point in the fight against TdA, enabling law enforcement to protect communities and uphold their oath to defend the country.