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In a significant move as part of its ramped-up immigration enforcement efforts, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained three members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang across two states this week. This operation marks an aggressive approach by the newly appointed administration in addressing illegal immigration, specifically targeting individuals with criminal backgrounds.
The three individuals arrested were identified as Nestor Jose Mendoza-Garcia in San Antonio, Texas, and Elmer Aparicio-Castillo along with another unidentified 36-year-old man in Nashville. All three allegedly entered the United States illegally last year and were subsequently processed by the Biden administration before their arrests.
“Throughout this week, ICE agents have been actively pursuing and detaining numerous illegal immigrants involved in serious criminal activities, leading to immediate deportations for those convicted of heinous offenses including rape, child sexual assault, terrorism, and murder,” stated President Donald Trump at a rally in Las Vegas this past Saturday.
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President Trump categorized the Tren de Aragua gang as notoriously violent, similar in reputation to the infamous MS-13 gang. He emphasized the seriousness of the threat posed by these gang members, commenting on how Venezuela has allegedly released dangerous individuals into the U.S. from its prison system, which worsens public safety concerns.
Mendoza-Garcia reportedly arrived in the U.S. in October and was initially issued a notice to appear in court following his release. His legal troubles escalated when San Antonio police arrested him in November for possessing a firearm linked to a murder inquiry. Following his indictment, ICE agents secured a federal arrest warrant for him, confirming his membership in the Tren de Aragua gang.
Aparicio-Castillo, who also received a notice to appear after an ICE encounter in El Paso, Texas, faced similar legal issues. He was apprehended by ICE in Nashville on charges of possessing a firearm illegally while having suspected ties to the gang. His prior criminal record includes offenses such as evading arrest and promoting prostitution.
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The unidentified 36-year-old individual entered the U.S. illegally in December through Eagle Pass, Texas, and was also issued a notice to appear following his entry. His arrest further highlights the administration’s focus on detaining individuals who pose potential threats within the community.
The White House, through Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, indicated that deportation flights have commenced, signaling a broader initiative to quickly process and remove individuals with criminal ties from the country.
The recent arrests point to a growing enforcement trend amidst the ongoing debates about immigration policies and public safety, highlighting the administration’s commitment to dealing with immigration violations, particularly among individuals involved in organized crime.
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