By Natalia Rueda 
In a significant blow to the Venezuelan criminal faction known as El Tren de Aragua, Colombian authorities have captured Jeison Alexander Lorca Salazar, one of the most wanted leaders of the notorious criminal group. Known by his alias, Jeison Comino, Salazar was arrested in the exclusive Los Santos region of Santander, Colombia, marking a significant step forward in efforts to dismantle the growing criminal empire that has spread its operations across several Latin American countries and other continents.
After several years on the run, Salazar’s capture was made possible thanks to close international cooperation between Colombian and Venezuelan authorities, who had been on his trail for a long period.
The arrest of Jeison Comino represents a significant blow to an organization that has undergone a remarkable evolution from its beginnings as a prison gang in Venezuela to become one of the most powerful and feared criminal structures in Latin America. The Aragua Train, which operates in countries such as Colombia, Peru, Chile and even the United States, is involved in a wide range of illicit activities, including arms trafficking, human trafficking, drug production and distribution, among others.
Cae el segundo cabecilla más importante del tren de Aragua en territorio colombiano y con el trabajo de la policía colombiana apoyada por la venezolana.
— Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) November 16, 2024
*INFORME DE RESULTADO OPERACIÓN FRONTERA CONTRA ALIAS “JEISON COMINO” SEGUNDO CABECILLA DEL TREN DE ARAGUA Y SEGUNDO MÁS… pic.twitter.com/loIP7XFqae
In the United States, authorities have expressed growing concern over the expansion of the criminal group known as El Tren de Aragua. This group has reportedly been involved in large-scale criminal activities in several major cities, including New York, Texas, Colorado and Wisconsin, where they operate smuggling networks and recruit new members, especially among immigrant communities.
Following Salazar’s capture, Colombian authorities are seeking his extradition to Venezuela, where he faces charges related to terrorism, organized crime and other serious crimes. Venezuela had offered a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his arrest.
While Salazar’s arrest is a significant blow to El Tren de Aragua, experts say the extent and complexity of its operations indicate the fight is far from over. The group’s ability to adapt, recruit new members and infiltrate various sectors of society makes it an ongoing threat to public security.