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Venezuelan Gang Leader ‘Larry Changa‘ Sought Goverment Dialog While Operating Criminal Network in Chile

Santiago, Chile – Larry Changa, ‌founder⁤ of the ‌notorious ‘Tren de Aragua‘ criminal association, ⁤reportedly initiated attempts to establish dialogue with​ the Venezuelan ⁤government⁣ while simultaneously building a considerable⁢ criminal network ​in ⁤Chile, according to sources familiar with the matter.The outreach included communication with alias​ ‘Niño⁣ Guerrero,’ a figure with connections to the Venezuelan state.This revelation⁤ comes as Chilean authorities continue to dismantle the ‘Tren de Aragua’ presence ‌within their borders and⁣ as concerns grow over the organization’s transnational reach.

The‌ attempt ⁢at negotiation, details of which are still ⁢emerging, underscores a calculated strategy ​by Changa to potentially secure concessions or immunity in exchange for information or a reduction in criminal activity.⁣ It also highlights the complex relationship between organized crime and elements within the Venezuelan government. ‘Tren de ​Aragua,’ originating in Venezuela’s Aragua state, has‍ expanded its operations ‌to several South American countries, engaging⁤ in activities ranging from extortion and drug trafficking​ to kidnapping and money laundering. The organization’s reach poses a‍ meaningful threat to regional security and stability, prompting increased international cooperation to combat its influence.

Changa, believed to have been operating under a false Colombian ⁣identity since entering ⁣Chile in 2018, successfully erased his identity from⁤ Venezuelan judicial and prison records, facilitating his movement and the establishment of front businesses in Santiago, including an exchange house and ‍a fast-food restaurant. These businesses‍ were allegedly used to launder money and support ‌criminal operations.

In Chile, Changa constructed a network mirroring the‍ ‘Tren de Aragua’ model used in Venezuela, enlisting other leaders⁤ such as ‍’Catire Santa Rita’ and ‘John Petrica.’ This network focused on crimes⁤ including extortion, drug trafficking,‌ kidnapping,‍ and money laundering.⁤ Chilean ‍authorities only⁤ detected Changa’s presence when he applied for Chilean⁢ nationality, triggering an​ international alert.

A source⁣ close to ⁣the‍ investigation expressed concern over the safety of Changa’s daughters, noting ⁤that foreign journalists had recorded images of them, leading him to​ believe they were “at risk.”

The investigation ‌continues, with authorities focusing on dismantling the⁢ remaining ‘Tren de Aragua’ cells in Chile and uncovering the ⁣full extent of Changa’s attempts to ⁢negotiate with ⁣the Venezuelan government.