The Criminal Megagang Terrorizing Latin America
Organized crime has long been a problem in Latin America, but few organizations have achieved the level of notoriety and reach of the Tren de Aragua. This Venezuelan megagang has extended its tentacles beyond its country’s borders, sowing terror in several countries across the region. Today, we’ll dive into the history of this feared criminal organization, from its humble beginnings to its current transnational dominance.
The origins: from construction workers to criminals
The Tren de Aragua didn’t start as a sophisticated criminal organization. Its roots can be traced back to 2009-2010 in Venezuela’s Aragua state. At that time, a group of workers was involved in the construction of a railway project that was never completed. These workers, frustrated by the lack of opportunities and the growing economic crisis in Venezuela, decided to take a dark path.
Initially, their criminal activities were relatively minor. They focused on extorting other workers, charging “fees” to secure jobs on the train project. However, this was just the beginning of what would become one of Latin America’s most feared criminal organizations.
Tocorón prison: the unexpected headquarters
Between 2012 and 2013, the Tren de Aragua found an unlikely place to consolidate its power: Tocorón Prison. It may seem strange that a prison would become the center of operations for a criminal gang, but the circumstances in Venezuela made it possible.
The negligence and corruption of the authorities led to the control of the prison falling into the hands of the inmates themselves. This system, known as “pranato,” allowed the leaders of the Tren de Aragua to establish a base of operations within the prison walls.
Ironically, government plans to “humanize” prisons, implemented by then-minister Tareck El Aissami, only served to strengthen the inmates’ control. By 2010, the Tren de Aragua was already building infrastructure within Tocorón that would later serve to expand their criminal operations.
From prison to the world: the expansion of the Tren de Aragua
Starting in 2015, the Tren de Aragua began to expand its influence beyond the walls of Tocorón. First, they extended their operations to other municipalities and states in Venezuela. Then, in a bold move, they began crossing international borders.
Today, the Tren de Aragua operates in several Latin American countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. They’ve even reached as far as the United States. This international expansion has led to clashes with local criminal organizations in these countries, increasing violence and instability in the region.
The crime catalog: activities of the Tren de Aragua
The Tren de Aragua is not limited to a single type of criminal activity. Their portfolio of crimes is wide and varied, including:
- Extortion: One of their main activities, especially in vulnerable communities.
- Kidnapping: Both for ransom and to intimidate rivals.
- Drug trafficking: Taking advantage of the international routes they’ve established.
- Human trafficking: Exploiting the Venezuelan migration crisis.
- Contract killings: Offering their services to the highest bidder.
- Vehicle theft: An activity dating back to their early days.
- Smuggling: Capitalizing on product shortages in Venezuela.
The structure: a well-organized criminal empire
Despite its humble origins, the Tren de Aragua has evolved into a highly structured organization. At the top of the pyramid is Héctor “Niño” Guerrero, the main leader who directs operations from Tocorón Prison.
Under Guerrero’s command, the organization has a well-defined hierarchy, with representatives in different regions and countries. It’s estimated that the Tren de Aragua has more than 4,000 members, making it one of the largest criminal organizations in Latin America.
Extreme violence: the Tren de Aragua’s trademark
If there’s one thing that distinguishes the Tren de Aragua from other criminal organizations, it’s their extreme use of violence. Within Tocorón Prison, punishments for disobeying the gang’s rules range from shootings in the limbs to death.
Outside the prison, the Tren de Aragua uses violence as a method of intimidation in the communities they control. They’ve even gone as far as publishing execution videos on social media, a tactic designed to sow terror among their rivals and local populations.
The present and future of the Tren de Aragua
Despite efforts by authorities in various countries, the Tren de Aragua remains a powerful criminal force. In September 2023, Venezuelan authorities conducted an operation to regain control of Tocorón Prison. During this operation, a 5 km network of tunnels was discovered connecting the prison to Lake Valencia, used by the organization’s leaders to escape and maintain their operations.
However, this action has not managed to completely dismantle the organization. The Tren de Aragua continues to operate and expand, representing a significant threat in several Latin American countries.
A regional challenge
The Tren de Aragua represents one of the greatest challenges to security in Latin America. Its ability to adapt, expand, and use extreme violence has made it a formidable criminal force.
To face this threat, unprecedented international cooperation will be necessary. Affected countries will need to share information, coordinate operations, and address the socioeconomic conditions that allow organizations like the Tren de Aragua to thrive.
The road to dismantling this megagang will be long and difficult, but it’s a necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of people throughout Latin America.
