Venezuela Gang Leader Nino Guerrero killed in US military strike

A top leader of Venezuela-based criminal organization Tren de Aragua has been killed in a US military operation, according to President Donald Trump and defense officials.

The slain figure, Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores—widely known by his alias “Nino Guerrero”—was targeted in what Trump described as a “swift and lethal” operation conducted under his directive by US Southern Command.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump confirmed the killing and said the operation specifically targeted one of the most dangerous figures linked to the transnational gang, which he described as among the world’s most violent criminal networks.

The US president alleged that Tren de Aragua has been involved in a range of criminal activities inside the United States, including drug trafficking and organised violence, and said its expansion was facilitated by weak border enforcement under previous administrations.

Trump said the strike sent a strong message against violent transnational gangs and would contribute to improved security in the United States and surrounding regions.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also confirmed the operation, saying the United States would continue its campaign against international drug trafficking and organised crime networks.

Guerrero had reportedly been on the run internationally since escaping Venezuela’s notorious Tocorón prison in 2023. He was wanted on multiple charges, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, money laundering and supporting terrorist-related activities.

Source: NBC News