“It is up to God, but some individuals have begun leaving the hotels due to fear,” a source shared with The Post. “When ICE arrived a few weeks ago with an arrest warrant for a resident here, there was nothing they could do.” Other migrants expressed anger over their uncertain future.
President Trump has long promised mass deportations of undocumented immigrants in the US, appointing Tom Homan as the tough new border czar to initiate the process upon taking office. The potential for ICE raids has left migrants at city shelters worried about deportation in the weeks ahead, according to Limame Gueye.
Homan, focusing on immigration asylum cities like Chicago and New York as initial targets, hinted at forthcoming nationwide raids despite delays due to leaks to the press. He emphasized the plan to allow ICE to arrest criminal aliens.
Migrant Kevin Llena, a Colombian national waiting for a work permit at the Roosevelt Hotel, expressed concerns about possible raids affecting his family. Meanwhile, Rafael, a Venezuelan national, doubted Trump would deport hardworking migrants, believing only those causing trouble or relying on government support would be targeted.
City officials noted a decrease in the number of migrants housed at shelters, with plans to shut down larger facilities. Some migrants have left the shelters, with the situation posing challenges for the NYPD. Many migrants, like Francis, rely on faith, saying, “Everything is in God’s hands.”
In recent years, a notorious Venezuelan gang known as Tren de Aragua has been making headlines for its presence within the shelter system, marking its territory since 2022 and causing chaos in the streets. The gang’s activities have sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents fearful and authorities scrambling to address the escalating situation.
As reports of the gang’s bold incursions into the shelter system have surfaced, concerns have grown over the potential consequences for public safety. With a reputation for violence and intimidation, Tren de Aragua’s emergence in this new realm has raised alarms among those tasked with maintaining order and security in the city.
The group’s ability to establish a foothold in the shelter system underscores the challenges faced by authorities in combating organized crime and protecting vulnerable populations. As the gang’s influence continues to spread, the need for swift and effective intervention has become increasingly urgent.
Additional insights into this concerning development have been provided by investigative journalists Carl Campaine and Jennie Taer, whose in-depth reporting sheds light on the complexities of the situation. Through their dedicated efforts to uncover the truth, they have brought attention to the gravity of the threat posed by Tren de Aragua’s presence in the shelter system.
As authorities work to stem the tide of violence and disruption caused by the gang, the community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of this alarming development. The challenges posed by Tren de Aragua’s activities serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against organized crime and the importance of vigilance in protecting the safety and well-being of all residents.
In the face of this growing threat, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies and community leaders to collaborate closely in order to address the root causes of gang violence and prevent further harm. By working together to implement comprehensive strategies that target the underlying issues driving criminal activity, progress can be made in dismantling the grip of Tren de Aragua on the shelter system and restoring a sense of security to the community.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for all stakeholders to remain committed to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the welfare of those affected by Tren de Aragua’s presence. Through collective action and a unified front against organized crime, the community can stand strong in the face of adversity and strive towards a safer, more secure future for all.
