Mexico City Investigates Alleged Tren de Aragua Extortion on Public Transport Routes
Mexico City, July 12 – Authorities in Mexico City are actively investigating allegations of extortion, threats, and protection rackets targeting public transport operators within the Red de Transporte de Pasajeros (RTP) system. The probe was launched after numerous drivers reported receiving financial demands to continue their work. The Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) is analyzing these reports to ascertain whether the incidents are linked to the Venezuelan criminal organization known as Tren de Aragua, or if other local criminal groups are operating in the capital.
As of now, the SSC has not confirmed the establishment of a Tren de Aragua cell within the RTP routes. Nevertheless, investigations remain open to identify those responsible for the alleged threats and to determine the origin of the reported criminal activities.
Routes Under Investigation
Based on the received reports, surveillance efforts are concentrated on several key corridors characterized by high passenger traffic and connections to Metro stations, Modal Transfer Centers (CETRAMs), and areas bordering municipalities in the State of Mexico. The routes currently under scrutiny include:
- Iztapalapa-Centro Histórico
- Cuautepec-Indios Verdes
- Aragón-Martín Carrera
- Santa Martha-Central de Abasto
In response to these concerns, authorities have increased the presence of security personnel in strategic locations to deter potential criminal activities and ensure passenger safety.
Investigation Extends to User Safety
The scope of the investigation is not limited to transport workers. There are also reports suggesting that individuals allegedly associated with criminal groups might be boarding public transport units to identify potential victims, subsequently attempting to intimidate or extort them. Authorities are also examining claims regarding the possible use of unregulated transport, such as unauthorized mototaxis and taxis, for surveillance purposes or to facilitate illicit activities in specific areas of the city.
The SSC has urged both operators and users to avoid confronting suspicious individuals directly and to report any threats or risky situations immediately through the emergency number 911 or the anonymous tip line 089.
Understanding Tren de Aragua’s Modus Operandi
Tren de Aragua is a criminal organization that originated in Venezuela. It has been implicated by authorities in various countries for its alleged involvement in crimes such as extortion, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and other violent acts. In Mexico, security institutions have documented investigations into the potential activities of members or cells linked to this group in several states. In Mexico City, authorities are continuing their inquiries to determine if the complaints related to public transport are connected to Tren de Aragua or if other criminal organizations are at play.
The ongoing investigations highlight the challenges faced by Mexico City in combating organized crime and ensuring the safety of its public transport system. The authorities remain committed to a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice and protect both transport workers and the general public.
Source: https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2026/07/12/investigan-posible-presencia-del-tren-de-aragua-en-rutas-de-transporte-publico-de-la-cdmx/
