Trump Proposes “Operation Aurora” to Combat Venezuelan Gang Activity in the U.S.
Former President Donald Trump introduced “Operation Aurora” during a rally in Aurora, Colorado, on Friday, outlining a federal plan aimed at removing members of the Venezuelan transnational gang, Tren de Aragua, from U.S. soil. Trump detailed how the proposed program would utilize the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to dismantle illegal immigrant criminal networks.
In his speech, Trump emphasized his commitment to public safety, assuring the Colorado crowd that he would make the state safe once more. “Colorado is going to vote for me because I am going to make Colorado safe again. We’re going to make you safe. We’re going to do it fast,” Trump said.
He formally introduced “Operation Aurora,” promising to expedite the removal of these gangs if elected. “I will invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to target and dismantle every migrant criminal network operating on American soil,” he declared.
Reflecting on the current state of the nation, Trump criticized President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, claiming that under their administration, the country has deteriorated. “We’re a country in tremendous distress. We’re a failing country,” Trump said, blaming their leadership for the nation’s challenges.
Trump promised a swift response if elected, stating his intention to deploy elite squads from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Border Patrol, and federal law enforcement to arrest and deport illegal alien gang members. He further proposed a ten-year sentence for any deported gang member who attempts to re-enter the U.S. “It is an automatic ten-year sentence in jail with no possibility of parole,” Trump emphasized.
In an even more controversial statement, Trump advocated for the death penalty for any migrant who kills an American citizen or law enforcement officer.
The rally came just weeks after members of the Tren de Aragua were seen in surveillance footage in Aurora, where they were allegedly involved in a fatal shooting. According to local authorities, the suspects were previously in Border Patrol custody but had been released.
The Venezuelan gang, known for its violent activities, has gained notoriety in the U.S. over recent years. Originating from Venezuelan prisons, the gang has expanded its reach into the U.S. amidst a surge in migration. High-profile crimes involving the gang have drawn national attention, including the murder of a 12-year-old girl and a series of violent robberies in New York City.
In response to the growing threat, the Biden administration took action earlier this year, designating Tren de Aragua as a significant transnational criminal organization, freezing any assets the gang holds in the U.S. The State Department also offered a reward for information leading to the arrest of the gang’s leaders.
Despite these efforts, Trump has criticized the current administration’s handling of the issue, vowing to take a tougher stance if elected. His “Operation Aurora” aims to eliminate the threat posed by the gang and restore safety to American communities.
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