A dangerous Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua (TdA), has reportedly taken control of an apartment complex in Aurora, Colorado, leaving residents in a state of fear and prompting city officials to take decisive action. The gang, known for its criminal activities in Venezuela, has expanded its operations to the United States, with Aurora being one of its latest strongholds.

The Edge apartment complex, located at 1568 Nome St., near Colfax and Peoria, has become a base for the gang’s activities. Social media videos show gang members openly carrying firearms as they move through the complex, creating a climate of fear among the residents. Cindy Romero, who lives in the complex, described the situation as a “nightmare,” revealing that she and her husband had to take extreme security measures just to protect themselves.

In response to the escalating situation, the city of Aurora has cited several code violations at the complex and is working to close it down. CBZ Management, the company that operates The Edge, has expressed frustration, stating that the gang’s presence has made it impossible to conduct necessary maintenance and repairs.

The Aurora Police Department has acknowledged the gang’s presence but has attempted to downplay the extent of their influence, describing it as “isolated.” However, for the residents living in fear, the danger feels far from isolated. The gang is involved in a range of violent activities, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and extortion, which have now spread to the streets of Aurora.

City Council member Danielle Jurinsky has criticized the lack of support for residents, highlighting that while help is available for migrants, American citizens are left to fend for themselves in these dangerous conditions.

As Aurora struggles with this crisis, the safety of its residents remains uncertain, underscoring the broader challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations in local communities.