Brazil Launches Major Operation Against Tren de Aragua, Uncovers Links to Comando Vermelho

Brazilian authorities have initiated a large-scale operation targeting alleged members of the Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan criminal organization implicated in activities such as arms, drug, and human trafficking. Investigations indicate the group has established links with the Brazilian faction Comando Vermelho.

The operation unfolded simultaneously across six Brazilian states, involving 25 arrest warrants and 30 searches aimed at gathering evidence. In the state of Amazonas, authorities apprehended "Venezuelans associated with the criminal group," along with a Brazilian citizen involved in repairing and transporting weapons. The operation's focus extended to Rio de Janeiro, where investigators captured a man accused of managing the organization's finances.

This alleged financial manager is suspected of laundering around 300 million reais (approximately $60 million) over the past year through cryptocurrencies and other assets. The arrest occurred at the city's international airport, where authorities also seized a luxury vehicle valued at about $1 million. The ongoing investigations suggest that Tren de Aragua maintained financial relationships with Comando Vermelho within Brazil and acted as a supplier of heavy weaponry to local criminal organizations.

The operation follows closely on the heels of a recent action in Venezuela, involving the United States, which resulted in the death of Héctor Guerrero Flores, identified as the top leader of Tren de Aragua. This criminal structure, which originated in Venezuelan prisons, has expanded its presence to several countries in the region.

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Venezuelans associated with the criminal group, as well as a Brazilian citizen dedicated to the repair of weapons and the land transport of armament.