The alleged leader of Venezuelan criminal gang Tren de Aragua's armed wing has been captured in a joint operation involving Colombia, the US, and the UK.
Colombia's National Police reported that José Antonio Márquez Morales—known as Caracas—was arrested in the city of Valledupar and played a central role in managing logistics and finances for the group, which has been involved in extortion, drug trafficking, and smuggling.
Tren de Aragua has been targeted by US President Donald Trump, who declared it a terrorist organization and has deported over 250 alleged members to a jail in El Salvador.
Colombia's National Police Director, Carlos Fernando Triana Beltrán, noted that Márquez Morales was the subject of an Interpol Red Notice, which calls for the detention of individuals pending extradition.
This news comes alongside heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela over anti-drug trafficking efforts. The Trump administration has accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of collaborating with drug cartels and has even offered a reward of $50 million for information leading to Maduro's capture, which he vehemently denies.
As the Biden administration continues to grapple with drug-related issues across the region, this arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against organized crime and drug trafficking emanating from Venezuela.
