Texas Declares Venezuelan Gang a Terrorist Organization, Supports Trump’s Migrant Claims

Texas officials formally designated the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a “foreign terrorist organization” and endorsed former President Donald Trump’s assertion that many migrants entering the US were released from Latin American prisons.

The Tren de Aragua, an international criminal network involved in extortion, homicide, drug trafficking, and human smuggling, has been linked to a series of violent incidents across the US.

On Monday Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the designation during a press conference, which will enable the state to pursue stronger anti-terrorism measures against the group. This includes a specialized task force and enhanced legal actions to combat the gang’s operations.

Abbott’s declaration follows claims by Texas border official Mike Banks, who alleged that Venezuela has been releasing prisoners with the condition that they leave the country and not return. Banks criticized the Biden administration’s immigration policies, suggesting they inadvertently encourage such individuals to enter the US This viewpoint aligns with Trump’s recent comments, where he vowed large-scale deportations of migrants and suggested that many have arrived from Venezuela.

In response, immigration advocates have countered that the Biden administration has imposed stringent restrictions at the border, arguing that the current policies are more restrictive than lenient.

Tren de Aragua’s criminal activities have reportedly increased in the US, with notable incidents including alleged gang-related violence and property takeovers in various states. The gang, which originated in Venezuelan prisons, has expanded its operations over the past decade.

Texas officials have launched several measures to address the gang’s presence, including the creation of a new database to track gang members and the establishment of nine anti-gang centers across the state with significant funding. Abbott emphasized that the goal is to prevent the gang from using Texas as a base to “terrorize” citizens.

The Biden administration had previously labeled Tren de Aragua as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and offered a reward for information leading to the arrest of its leaders. However, Trump’s recent comments and the endorsement of the gang’s terrorist designation by Texas officials have intensified the political debate over immigration and border security.

The situation has led to increased tensions and security measures, particularly in areas affected by gang activity. As Texas continues to ramp up its efforts against Tren de Aragua, the state’s actions reflect broader national debates over immigration policy and border enforcement.

With input from FOX News, CBS News, New York Post.