The Aragua Train: Criminal Group’s Shifting Alliances and Future in Latin America
A new report from the non-profit institution insight Crime details the complex reality surrounding the Aragua Train, a Venezuelan criminal group whose influence has expanded throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.The analysis examines the interplay between the group’s activities and the stated positions of the governments of the United States and Venezuela,as well as the Maduro regime’s strategies for addressing the organization.
The Aragua train’s Origins and Expansion
The Aragua Train originated in Venezuela’s Aragua Penitentiary Center,gaining notoriety for its brutal tactics and control over criminal activities within the prison system. It has since evolved into a transnational organization involved in a range of illicit activities, including extortion, kidnapping, and trafficking.
Did You Know? The Aragua Train’s name derives from the state in Venezuela where it first gained prominence.
Jeremy McDermott, co-founder and co-director of InSight Crime, spoke with The Colombian about the group’s trajectory and the Venezuelan government’s response. He outlined two potential paths for the maduro regime regarding the Aragua Train: a decisive crackdown or a strategic allowance of its leadership to operate abroad.
Maduro’s Dilemma: Eliminate or Utilize?
According to McDermott, President Nicolás Maduro faces a critical decision. “Maduro has two options. If he wants to end the Aragua Train in Venezuela, he can attack his latest sanctuary that is the clear ones,” he stated, referring to areas within the state of Bolívar controlled by alias Johan Petrica. Alternatively, the regime could allow key leaders, such as “Niño Guerrero,” to remain at large, potentially leveraging them for operations outside the country.
InSight Crime’s report suggests the possibility of the Aragua Train becoming an instrument of the Maduro regime, employing a tactic known as geocriminality – the use of criminal groups by a government to achieve external objectives. The report posits that the regime might ”allow its operations in Venezuela, while using elements abroad to advance in its geopolitical and economic objectives.”
Allegations of State-Sponsored Violence
The report details allegations linking the Aragua Train to state-sponsored violence, citing the case of a Venezuelan military dissident killed in Santiago, Chile. According to a Chilean prosecutor, the assassination was carried out by the Aragua Train under the orders of Diosdado Cabello, a prominent figure in the Venezuelan government.
Despite its international reach,McDermott believes the Aragua Train is weakening,though its recognition has been amplified,in some instances,by the United States.
The End of Complicity?
The report indicates that the Venezuelan government’s complicity with the Aragua Train may be waning. Initially,the relationship was described as a ”paradigmatic example of hybrid governance,” where the government allied with criminal groups to maintain control in areas where its authority was limited,notably within prisons.However, this strategy appears to have run its course.
The shift is attributed to the Aragua Train becoming an “international shame,” culminating in the September 2023 operation to regain control of the Aragua Penitentiary Center,known as Tocorón.
Pro Tip: Understanding the dynamics between criminal organizations and state actors is crucial for effective regional security strategies.
However, McDermott notes that over 100 members of the Aragua Train, including “Niño Guerrero,” escaped prior to the raid, suggesting foreknowledge of the impending operation.
From the Aragua Train to the ELN: A New Alliance
While the Aragua Train’s direct support from the Maduro regime may be diminishing, the report highlights a growing alliance between the Venezuelan government and the National Liberation Army (ELN), a Colombian guerrilla group. The ELN reportedly controls the Venezuelan side of the border region with Colombia, facilitated by Freddy Bernal, a former protector of Táchira state who is now the governor.
This alliance has strengthened the Aragua Train’s presence in Norte de Santander, colombia, capitalizing on the region’s thriving illicit activities, particularly smuggling and human trafficking. The group has also expanded its operations to Bogotá and the border region of Nariño, Ecuador.
The Future of Regional Security
The report suggests that the Aragua Train’s expansion is fueled by the availability of opportunities in areas with weak governance and porous borders. The group’s ability to adapt and forge new alliances poses a significant challenge to regional security. What steps can international organizations take to effectively counter the Aragua Train’s transnational criminal activities?
| Event | date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Aragua Train Emerges | early 2010s | Origins within the Aragua penitentiary Center in Venezuela. |
| Expansion into Colombia | 2018-2020 | Increased presence in border regions, particularly Norte de Santander. |
| Operation to Reclaim Tocorón Prison | September 2023 | Attempt by Venezuelan government to dismantle the Aragua Train’s logistical hub. |
| Growing ELN Alliance | 2024-Present | Strengthened ties between the venezuelan government and the ELN. |
The Aragua Train’s story is emblematic of a broader trend in latin america: the increasing convergence of criminal organizations and political actors.This phenomenon, often referred to as “hybrid governance,” poses a significant threat to democratic institutions and regional stability. Understanding the underlying factors that contribute to this trend – including weak governance, corruption, and economic inequality – is crucial for developing effective counter-strategies. The group’s adaptability and willingness to exploit vulnerabilities in the region suggest that it will remain a significant security challenge for the foreseeable future.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Aragua Train
- What is the Aragua Train? The Aragua Train is a Venezuelan criminal organization that originated in the Aragua Penitentiary Center and has expanded its operations throughout Latin America.
- What are the Aragua Train’s primary activities? The group is involved in a range of illicit activities, including extortion, kidnapping, trafficking, and potentially acting as a proxy for the Maduro regime.
- What is the relationship between the Aragua Train and the Venezuelan government? The report suggests a complex relationship, initially characterized by complicity, but potentially shifting towards a more distant or even adversarial stance.
- Is the Aragua Train weakening? While its international recognition has increased, the group is reportedly weakening due to increased pressure and the loss of key logistical hubs.
- What is geocriminality? Geocriminality refers to the use of criminal groups by a government to achieve external objectives.
