According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), an individual with ties to the notorious Tren de Aragua gang who is wanted by Chilean authorities on kidnapping allegations was apprehended in Indianapolis. The apprehension of Venezuelan citizens on Tuesday represents a concerted effort by international law enforcement to crack down on transnational criminal groups.
Acting ICE Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Dan Johnsen emphasized the importance of such cooperation: “Thanks to strong collaboration between U.S. law enforcement and our international counterparts, we were able to apprehend this individual, who has connections to dangerous criminal organizations like Tren de Aragua,” he stated. Johnsen emphasized that organized crime groups do more than just pose a local threat; they jeopardize global safety and security. According to ICE, the suspect entered the United States illegally in 2024 and has been on the radar of Chilean law enforcement owing to an alleged kidnapping that occurred during their stay in Chile.
The arrest highlights ICE’s ongoing efforts to locate and detain individuals who may represent a threat to the community owing to their criminal associations. The unnamed Venezuelan is currently in ICE detention as he awaits immigration proceedings, with officials remaining vigilant against such cross-border crime networks.
ICE has also called on the public to help keep communities secure by reporting crimes or suspicious activities. “Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form,” the agency said.