New to Pano? Start here

Apr 24th, 2025, 12:31 PM ET·Politics

Alleged Tren de Aragua Leader Charged with Terrorism in First Indictment of Its Kind

Jose Enrique Martinez Flores, a high-ranking member of Tren de Aragua, faces terrorism charges as part of U.S. efforts against the organization.


Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

The Department of Justice has charged Jose Enrique Martinez Flores, a 24-year-old Venezuelan national, with terrorism-related offenses tied to Tren de Aragua. Flores, captured in Colombia, faces conspiracy and drug distribution charges for his role in supporting this foreign terrorist organization. U.S. officials emphasize this case represents a critical stance against potential threats from gang activities. If convicted, he may face life imprisonment and a significant fine. The prosecution marks a pivotal moment in efforts to combat the influence of Tren de Aragua, underscoring its classification as a terrorist organization.

Sources (3)

Compare coverage of this story from news outlets across the political spectrum.
  • World News Group
  • Washington Examiner
  • Daily Caller
  • The Department of Justice has made significant strides against organized crime by charging Tren de Aragua members with terrorism-related offenses, marking a pivotal change in legal approach.
  • Jose Enrique Martinez Flores' indictment by the DOJ highlights the Trump administration's ongoing commitment to treating certain gangs as terrorist organizations, reflecting national security concerns.
  • FBI and DOJ efforts to pursue and prosecute leaders of Tren de Aragua indicate a strategic shift towards addressing the root of drug trafficking and violence linked to this gang.
Alleged Tren de Aragua gangster first to be charged as terrorist
World News GroupWorld News Group·1M·
Leans Right
This outlet slightly leans right.

"…The unsealed five-count indictment marks the first time such charges have been leveled since the State Department declared Tren de Aragua a foreign terrorist organization."

Trump Admin Indicts Alleged Tren De Aragua Leader On Terrorism Charges For First Time
Daily CallerDaily Caller·1M·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.

"…The Trump administration celebrated the unsealed indictments, which marked the latest blow the White House has taken against TdA, a Venezuela-based international crime syndicate."

FAQ

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.

Alleged Tren de Aragua Leader Charged with Terrorism in First Indictment of Its Kind - Pano News