US Treasury Targets Money Laundering Network Aiding Tren de Aragua Group
The U.S. Treasury Department has targeted a network allegedly linked to the Tren de Aragua (TdA) group, a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Sanctions were imposed on various affiliates, including Jimena Romina Araya Navarro, known as “Rosita,” a Venezuelan entertainer and alleged supporter of TdA.
US Treasury Targets Money Laundering Network Aiding Tren de Aragua Group
On an unspecified date in 2025, the Treasury designated Rosita, alongside five other individuals and one entity, for providing material support to TdA. Rosita is accused of helping Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, or “Niño Guerrero,” the leader of TdA, escape from a Venezuelan prison in 2012. Her network is also alleged to have laundered money for TdA’s leadership.
Key Figures in the Sanctioned Network
- Jimena Romina Araya Navarro (“Rosita”): DJ and actress linked to TdA.
- Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores (“Niño Guerrero”): Leader of TdA.
- Eryk Manuel Landaeta Hernandez (“Eryk”): Former bodyguard and manager of Rosita, also sanctioned for his connections to TdA.
- Kenffersso Jhosue Sevilla Arteaga (“El Flipper”): Right-hand man to Niño Guerrero, known for financial leadership within TdA.
Rosita has performed in various locations, including the Maiquetia VIP Bar Restaurant in Bogota, a venue owned by Eryk, who has also been arrested for colluding with TdA. The proceeds from her performances are reportedly funneled to support the organization.
Extensive Criminal Activities of Tren de Aragua
TdA, which originated in Venezuela, has engaged in numerous criminal activities, including:
- Drug trafficking
- Migrant smuggling
- Human trafficking
- Extortion and murder-for-hire
A recent increase in rewards—offering up to $5 million—for information leading to the arrest of Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, another top TdA leader, demonstrates the seriousness of U.S. efforts to dismantle TdA’s operations.
Consequences of Sanctions
All U.S. assets associated with the designated individuals are frozen, and transactions involving them are prohibited. Those violating these sanctions risk significant civil and criminal penalties. Financial institutions that facilitate transactions with sanctioned individuals may face secondary sanctions.
The Treasury Department’s ongoing campaign against TdA reflects a broader strategy to combat international terrorism and organized crime. The actions taken aim to disrupt the financial networks that support such organizations, promoting national security interests.
