WASHINGTON – The United States has announced sanctions against 11 individuals and entities linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal organization, including members of an alleged network accused of stealing millions of dollars from U.S. financial institutions.
The sanctions were imposed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Ten of those targeted are accused of involvement in a financial fraud network, while another sanctioned individual is described by U.S. authorities as a senior Tren de Aragua figure connected to illegal gold-mining operations.
According to U.S. authorities, the financial network used malicious software to manipulate automated teller machines in the United States. The malware allegedly forced ATMs to dispense cash without the withdrawals being charged to a customer’s account.
The proceeds were subsequently laundered and transferred to members of the criminal organization in different countries, including through cryptocurrency transactions.
Washington identified Aníbal Alexander Canelón Aguirre, also known as “Prometheus,” as an organizer of the alleged scheme.
The United States also sanctioned Juan Gabriel Rivas Núñez, known as “Juancho,” whom U.S. authorities describe as a high-ranking Tren de Aragua leader involved in operations across several South American countries and linked to illegal gold mining.
The latest action forms part of Washington’s broader effort to disrupt Tren de Aragua’s financial networks and prevent money generated through criminal activities from moving through the international financial system.
Under the sanctions, property and interests in property belonging to the designated individuals and entities that are located in the United States or under the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked.
Transactions involving the sanctioned parties are also generally prohibited for U.S. citizens and companies.
Tren de Aragua originated in Venezuela but has expanded its activities into several countries in the Americas. U.S. authorities have increasingly targeted the organization through financial sanctions and other measures aimed at disrupting its alleged transnational criminal operations.