San Antonio, Texas, November 26, 2025
In a significant law enforcement operation in San Antonio, federal authorities arrested 143 individuals, including 51 confirmed members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). Conducted near an area known for criminal activities, this coordinated effort underscores the commitment to combat organized crime and enhance public safety. The operation also resulted in the seizure of cocaine, firearms, and cash linked to the gang’s operations, reflecting ongoing efforts to dismantle dangerous criminal networks.
San Antonio, Texas
Major Operation Against Tren de Aragua Gang in San Antonio
On November 16, 2025, federal authorities arrested 143 individuals in a significant operation targeting the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) in San Antonio, Texas. Among those detained, 51 were confirmed members of TdA, a transnational criminal organization involved in various illicit activities. The operation was conducted near 5939 San Pedro Avenue, an area known for criminal activities associated with TdA, including drug distribution, illegal weapons possession, and human trafficking.
This coordinated law enforcement action is part of a broader strategy to combat emerging threats from criminal organizations. The existence of the Homeland Security Task Force – South Texas reflects the commitment of federal and state agencies to uphold public safety while maintaining collaborative efforts to disrupt organized crime. Such partnerships showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of law enforcement—where creativity meets diligence in the pursuit of justice.
Criminal Activities and Arrests
During this operation, 143 individuals were taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for immigration proceedings. The demographic breakdown of the detained individuals included 98 Venezuelans, 21 Hondurans, 14 Mexicans, 4 Cubans, 2 Ecuadorians, and one each from Nicaragua, Peru, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Furthermore, 25 of those arrested had previous criminal histories in the United States, consisting of 13 felonies and 12 misdemeanors. This highlights the multifaceted nature of the criminal networks that authorities are striving to dismantle.
Seizure of Evidence
In conjunction with the arrests, significant evidence related to the gang’s criminal activities was also seized. Authorities confiscated cocaine, three firearms, and approximately $35,000 in cash from the establishment linked to the gang’s operations. These actions reinforce the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle dangerous criminal networks and reflect a commitment to restoring safety in potentially affected neighborhoods.
Government Accountability
In light of the operation, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) called for increased transparency from federal authorities regarding the raid. He raised concerns regarding the destruction of security cameras during the operation and the lack of tangible evidence connecting the arrested individuals to TdA’s activities. This sentiment underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement, ensuring that operations are conducted in a manner that fosters community trust and upholds the rule of law.
Broader Impact on the Community
The operation in San Antonio corresponds with a nationwide strategy aimed at addressing the activities of TdA. Earlier this year, similar operations resulted in the arrest of over 40 suspected members of TdA in Hays County, Texas. These concentrated efforts reflect a national commitment to combatting the influence of transnational criminal organizations throughout the country. The ongoing investigation into TdA’s activities in San Antonio showcases the importance of coordination between federal, state, and local agencies in tackling complex criminal networks that operate across borders.
Conclusion
The recent operation against the Tren de Aragua gang underscores the determination of law enforcement to provide a safer environment for the San Antonio community. As local entrepreneurs continue to innovate and contribute to economic growth, the efforts of these agencies serve to protect the integrity of our neighborhoods, ultimately fostering a climate conducive to business prosperity. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged with local initiatives and to support efforts that empower both businesses and communities toward a brighter, safer future.
FAQ
What is the Tren de Aragua (TdA)?
The Tren de Aragua (TdA) is a Venezuelan transnational criminal organization involved in various illicit activities, including drug distribution, illegal weapons possession, and human trafficking. The U.S. government has designated TdA as a foreign terrorist organization due to its extensive criminal operations.
How many individuals were arrested in the San Antonio operation?
A total of 143 individuals were arrested during the operation in San Antonio, Texas, on November 16, 2025. Among those detained, 51 were confirmed members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
What evidence was seized during the operation?
During the operation, authorities seized cocaine, three firearms, and approximately $35,000 in cash. These items were confiscated from the establishment associated with the criminal activities of the Tren de Aragua gang.
What is the Homeland Security Task Force – South Texas?
The Homeland Security Task Force – South Texas is a collaborative effort between federal and state agencies aimed at combating transnational criminal organizations. The task force serves as a model for similar efforts nationwide, emphasizing both prevention and enforcement in addressing emerging threats from such groups.
What has been the response from local officials regarding the operation?
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) has called for greater transparency from federal authorities regarding the raid. He questioned the destruction of security cameras during the operation and the lack of evidence linking the arrested individuals to the Tren de Aragua gang, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in such operations.
Key Features of the San Antonio Operation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Date | November 16, 2025 |
| Location | 5939 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas |
| Number of Arrests | 143 individuals |
| Confirmed TdA Members Arrested | 51 individuals |
| Seized Items | Cocaine, three firearms, approximately $35,000 in cash |
| Agencies Involved | ICE, FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety, and other federal and state agencies |
| Congressional Response | Congressman Joaquin Castro called for greater transparency from federal authorities regarding the raid |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
