President Donald Trump, in his second term, has initiated a nationwide crackdown on Tren de Aragua, a notorious Venezuelan crime syndicate operating across the United States.
Under a new directive, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are authorized to enter homes and make arrests without a warrant if they determine that a suspect is affiliated with the group.
According to USA Today, a U.S. Department of Justice memo dated April 14 was distributed to field agents, granting ICE officers expanded powers under the Alien Enemies Act. The memo states that ICE agents may, based on reasonable judgment, enter a residence and arrest individuals without a warrant if they are Venezuelan nationals suspected of being members of Tren de Aragua or participating in the group’s crimes.
Violent Gang Tied to Human Trafficking, Murder, and Drug Trade
The Tren de Aragua is considered Venezuela’s most violent criminal organization, having expanded into the U.S. in recent years. The group is involved in human trafficking, homicide, and narcotics distribution, with growing influence across multiple states.
The memo clarifies that although agents are encouraged to obtain warrants, it is not required. Agents may conduct arrests first and complete documentation afterward, removing the need for prior judicial approval.
Federal Justification Under Alien Enemies Act
This enforcement measure is based on the Alien Enemies Act, a federal statute that allows the U.S. government to detain or remove individuals from countries perceived as threats. By applying this law, the Justice Department effectively defines the gang’s activity as a predatory incursion on U.S. territory.
USA Today reports that any individual identified as a member or associate of Tren de Aragua may now face immediate deportation without hearings or appeals, under the provisions of this enforcement action.
Crackdown Extends to Criminal Noncitizens
The Trump administration is also pursuing removal of undocumented immigrants with felony records and, in some cases, lawful permanent residents with criminal histories.
Immigration attorneys emphasize that green card holders can still be deported under U.S. immigration law if convicted of certain serious offenses, as lawful permanent residence does not equal full legal protection.
BY YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
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