The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation TBI has raised an alarming warning about the resurgence of a violent Venezuelan gang in the state.
The group, known as Tren de Aragua, has been identified as a major threat due to its involvement in serious crimes, including human trafficking, organized retail crime, drug activities, and brutal violence.
The gang is linked to a transnational network that initially gained a foothold in Venezuela’s prisons before expanding internationally.
Recently, the gang resurfaced in Tennessee, notably in major cities, where it has been tied to violent acts such as a public shooting of a cartel member.
TBI Director David Rausch addressed the issue during a budget meeting with Governor Bill Lee, describing the gang as a significant threat. Tren de Aragua’s operations begin with the trafficking of women from Venezuela, which then leads to further criminal enterprises.
The Biden administration has already recognized the gang as a transnational criminal organization and placed a $12 million reward for information leading to its leaders’ capture.
Local authorities are increasingly concerned about the group’s ability to escalate violence across the state.
