NYPD Warned of Escalating Tren de Aragua Threats to Law Enforcement and Public Safety
Scoop! Recent intelligence from the NYPD and partner agencies highlights significant threats posed by the Venezuelan transnational criminal organization Tren de Aragua (TdA). This report, received by NYPD officers on their work phones yesterday, outlines the violent and criminal activities, recruitment tactics, and identification methods used by TdA, emphasizing the necessity for heightened vigilance among law enforcement officers. I've put out information about TdA before, detailing their involvement in various criminal activities and their methods of operation TdA leaders have reportedly authorized members based in Denver to attack law enforcement officers. Historical data shows that TdA members have preemptively shot at officers in Venezuela to evade capture. TDA members shot at NYPD officers on multiple occasions. TdA members allegedly smuggle firearms into noncitizen shelters using food delivery services to bypass security. They disguise themselves as delivery workers, facilitating the introduction of weapons into these environments.TdA members are involved in extortion, human trafficking, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, fraud, retail theft, and property crime. They may use fictitious identification documents to hinder investigations. Current TdA members may attempt to recruit noncitizens in shelters to engage in criminal acts. It is unclear if recruiters are also residents of these shelters.TdA members try to conceal their affiliation with the group by getting tattoos of loved ones' names, often accompanied by crowns and anchors. Tattoos such as clocks and weapons like AK-47s indicate time served in prison or status as a hitman.Members may use an L shape with their thumb and forefinger in private contexts to indicate membership. They generally avoid using hand signs openly.When questioned by law enforcement, TdA members may act uncooperatively and deny any affiliation with the group.TdA members use social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, utilizing emojis such as trains, ninjas, and crowns, and South American slang to mask their identities. They also use encrypted communication platforms like WhatsApp to evade law enforcement detection.The presence and activities of TdA in New York City pose significant public safety concerns. The group’s propensity for violence, including shootings, stabbings, assaults, and robberies, necessitates continued vigilance by NYPD officers. Field Intelligence Officers (FIOs) are advised to remain observant of TdA symbols and behaviors to identify and mitigate the group’s operations within the city.1. Uniformed members of the service (UMOS) should maintain increased situational awareness, particularly regarding TdA symbols and potential recruitments in shelters.2 .UMOS should collaborate with local precinct Field Intelligence Teams for real-time assistance and intelligence sharing.3. Any intelligence that enhances awareness of TdA activities should be promptly reported to the Intelligence Division.4.Shelters should review and enhance security protocols to prevent the smuggling of firearms and unauthorized entry by disguised individuals.By remaining vigilant and proactive, the NYPD can mitigate the threats posed by Tren de Aragua and ensure the safety of both law enforcement officers and the public.