Terror Cartel Leader Busted in Texas: Tren de Aragua’s Fall

The Department of Justice has unleashed a hammer blow on the notorious Tren de Aragua (TdA) terrorist cartel, announcing the unsealing of multiple indictments against over 70 individuals. This includes high-level members and leaders tied to a litany of violent crimes across the nation. The indictments span five U.S. Attorney offices: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, and Texas.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi declared, ‘This latest crackdown underscores our commitment to restore public safety. TdA is a terrorist cartel that exploits borders for murder and drugs. We are dismantling their networks across the United States.’

The FBI’s Kash Patel emphasized, ‘TdA poses a direct threat to national security. With law enforcement at every level, we are bringing these criminals to justice.’ The DEA’s Terrance Cole added, ‘We will confront this threat by targeting TdA leadership and financial networks. Those who align with them face federal law enforcement’s full force.’

Among the indicted is Carlos Ramirez, 33, of El Paso, Texas, charged with conspiracy to traffic controlled substances. He faces life in prison if convicted. DEA agents also arrested Juanita Rodriguez, 28, from Lubbock, Texas, on charges of money laundering and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Since January 20, 2025, over 260 TdA members have been federally indicted. The United States Marshals Service vowed, ‘We will find you. We will arrest you. You will be made to answer for your crimes.’

This is just the latest chapter in the Justice Department’s relentless pursuit of cartels and transnational criminal organizations. With TdA on the ropes, law enforcement agencies are determined to keep American communities safe.