The U.S. government has issued a reward of up to $50 million for information leading to the identification and apprehension, or conviction, of three high-ranking members of the Aragua Train, a Venezuelan-based criminal organization.
US authorities have announced plans to enhance existing rewards for two individuals and expand the list to include a third person, as of November 5.
The U.S. State Department and the Justice Department have released information identifying three individuals as targets of a recent operation. The individuals are Yohan José Romero, also known as "Yohan Petrica"; Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, who is also referred to as "Giovanni" or "El Viejo"; and Juan Gabriel Rivas Núñez, who is identified as "Juancho".
The United States has significantly increased the reward amounts for key witnesses in the case, with Romero's offer rising from four to 20 million dollars. Similarly, Mosquera Serrano's reward has been increased from five to 15 million dollars, and Rivas Núñez is eligible for a reward of up to 15 million dollars.
A combined reward of up to $50 million is being offered for information leading to the capture of three train leaders following a Homeland Security Task Force investigation.
US authorities have brought charges against three individuals in connection with a conspiracy to offer substantial assistance to the Aragua Train.
Mosquera Serrano is also facing charges in connection with a conspiracy to produce and disseminate cocaine, as well as its international distribution. Furthermore, he is listed among the FBI's top 10 most wanted fugitives.
According to judicial documents cited by U.S. authorities, Romero is linked to the organization's operational activities. Meanwhile, Mosquera Serrano and Rivas Núñez are reportedly responsible for overseeing distinct aspects of the group's activities within the continent.
Investigations have uncovered a connection between the Aragua Train and a range of illicit activities, including drug trafficking, arms trafficking, human trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, murder, and illicit financial transactions.
The U.S. government is seeking public assistance in identifying the locations of the three individuals believed to be key leaders, and is encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has established multiple channels for receiving tips, including its local offices and the official online platform tips.fbi.gov, as well as the phone number +1-281-787-9939.
