Armed Venezuelan gang members attempt to breach the U.S. border at El Paso, raising concerns about national security and immigration policies. As the U.S. gears up for tighter immigration controls, the Tren de Aragua gang is relentlessly attempting to breach the border at El Paso.
Tensions at the Texas Border
Tren de Aragua, a gang originating from Venezuela, is making headlines with its brazen attempts to cross into the U.S. via El Paso, Texas. Armed with knives and other weapons, members of the gang have been reported to attack border checkpoints, highlighting the security threats faced by the border towns. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has officially labeled this gang a foreign terrorist organization, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
Members of Tren de Aragua are reportedly mobbing border crossings and attacking guards to break into the U.S. before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, according to a Texas law enforcement memo obtained by the New York Post. https://t.co/EQAmFqmOJc
— NewsRadio WHAM 1180 (@WHAM1180) December 31, 2024
A leaked memo from the Texas Department of Public Safety warned of another sinister plan by the gang to make a move as soon as New Year’s Day. According to sources, these incursions occur nightly at around 3 a.m. with the intent to “cause harm” to Texas National Guard soldiers on duty. This concerning revelation showcases the gang’s determination.
SCOOP: Knife-wielding Tren de Aragua gangsters are mobbing border crossings in El Paso in an attempt to break into the US — and have said they will attack border guards who try to stop them, according to an internal TX DPS memo we obtained.
Last week, 20 of the Venezuelan… pic.twitter.com/xkqOeLvwWX
— Jennie Taer 🎗️ (@JennieSTaer) December 31, 2024
The Battle for Control
Over 200 migrants had already managed to breach security at the border, clashing with National Guard soldiers deployed in El Paso. In a previous attempt, 20 gang members carrying blades and broken bottles attempted to force their way past a border gate, escalating tensions and creating chaos amidst border officials and local law enforcement.
“You’re seeing that violence at the border because they know that it’s going to change in 27 days. It’s going to change. It will be different, and they will be sought after” – Victor Avila.
The departure of the current administration and the anticipated changes under the president-elect have spurred the gang’s urgency to infiltrate American soil. The ideological undertones of the gang align them with terrorist motivations, with evident anti-American sentiments. Riots have led to the arrest of over 100 suspected gang members at the El Paso entrance.
Future of Immigration Policy
The incoming administration is poised to address these significant national security threats with rigorous immigration policies in line with Trump’s campaign promises. Additional state resources and punitive measures, including a 10-year minimum sentence for gang-related smuggling, are already being implemented to deter illegal entry attempts. As tensions rise, Americans await policy change to ensure secure borders.
“Texas is aggressively going after these foreign terrorist organizations of TdA” – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.
The Tren de Aragua’s involvement with Mexican cartels has expanded its criminal operations, emphasizing the need for coordinated international security efforts. Homeland Security and state authorities continue to monitor and respond to threats, safeguarding the nation from organized criminal enterprises.
