Justice Department Charges High-Ranking Tren de Aragua Member with Terrorism

FIRST ON FOX: The Justice Department has taken a historic step by charging a high-ranking member of Tren de Aragua with terrorism and international drug distribution offenses. This marks the first instance where U.S. authorities have employed terrorism charges to prosecute a member of this violent gang.

A five-count superseding indictment was unsealed on Wednesday, revealing charges against 24-year-old Jose Enrique Martinez Flores, also known as ‘Chuqui.’ He faces accusations of conspiring to provide and providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

A High-Ranking Member of Tren de Aragua

Flores is alleged to be a significant figure within Tren de Aragua, reportedly serving as a Plaza Boss in Bogota, Colombia. Sources indicate he is part of the inner circle of senior leadership in the organization.

In addition to the terrorism charges, Flores is accused of conspiracy and distribution of cocaine destined for the United States.

Government Officials Address the Charges

Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘TdA is not a street gang—it is a highly structured terrorist organization that has established roots in our country during the prior administration.’ She emphasized that the present charges signify a pivotal moment in how the Justice Department will address and dismantle this destructive organization, known for devastating American families and communities.

FBI Director Kash Patel echoed these sentiments, describing Tren de Aragua as a ‘violent arm of the Maduro regime operating inside our borders.’ He affirmed, ‘We are utilizing every available resource to confront them as the transnational threat they represent. This group is notorious for drug trafficking, human smuggling, and acts of brutal violence that have wreaked havoc on American communities.’

The Arrest of Jose Enrique Martinez Flores

Flores was apprehended by Colombian authorities on March 30 following a provisional arrest warrant issued by the United States. This arrest was part of a coordinated effort to bring him to justice.

Designations by the Trump Administration

The Trump administration took decisive action in February 2020, designating Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization and labeling its members as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. This designation enhances the legal tools available to combat the group effectively.

A DOJ official noted, ‘This is the first time the DOJ has leveraged terrorism charges against members of TdA. The designation by President Trump has provided us with a broader set of legal options to confront these individuals.’

Operation Take Back America

The charges against Flores coincide with ongoing efforts by the Justice Department, as part of ‘Operation Take Back America.’ This nationwide initiative aims to deploy the full range of resources to counter illegal immigration, eradicate cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and safeguard communities from violent crime.

Previously filed racketeering charges against Tren de Aragua members include serious offenses such as conspiracy to commit murder, sex trafficking, and drug-related charges.

Widespread Impact of the Indictment

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York revealed that 21 out of the 27 individuals charged are currently in federal custody. The statement highlights that 16 were already in custody for various federal, immigration, or state charges, while five were arrested recently.

The indictment emerges in the wake of reports suggesting that Venezuelan government officials may be facilitating the movement of Tren de Aragua members from Venezuela to the U.S. This is seen as part of an effort to undermine public safety in America.

Addressing Transnational Threats

In summary, the charges against Jose Enrique Martinez Flores represent a significant shift in U.S. law enforcement’s approach to confronting the threats posed by Tren de Aragua. By utilizing terrorism charges, the Justice Department signals its commitment to tackling transnational criminal organizations that jeopardize the safety and wellbeing of American citizens.

This case underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime and terrorism, as officials continue to investigate and dismantle networks that contribute to violence and instability.