Aragua Train Kingpin Nabbed! Most Wanted in Chile Arrested in Colombia
In a major victory against transnational organized crime, Venezuelan national Alberto Carlos Mejía Hernández, a key figure in the notorious 'Tren de Aragua' (Aragua Train) criminal organization, has been apprehended in Barrancabermeja, Santander, Colombia. The arrest, the result of a complex operation involving judicial cooperation from Carabineros de Chile, marks a significant blow to the gang's operations in South America.
Mejía Hernández was one of the most sought-after members of the 'Tren de Aragua' in Chile. He is wanted for aggravated homicide. The operation was carried out through the Interpol Office as part of a program assisting in the fight against transnational organized crime, according to police reports.
The captured kingpin had a red notice issued against him and a substantial criminal record. He is allegedly responsible for the murder of José Felipe Reyes Ossa, a money lender known as ‘El Rey de Meiggs’ (The King of Meiggs), which occurred on June 19th in Ñuñoa, Chile.
Following his arrest, Mejía Hernández has been placed in the custody of the Colombian Attorney General's Office. Extradition proceedings are now underway to bring him to justice in Chile.
Colombian authorities have expressed their gratitude to their Chilean counterparts for their collaboration in this successful operation. The directors of the Chilean Investigative Police (PDI) and Carabineros de Chile have been recognized for their commitment to working together with the Colombian National Police in the fight against organized crime.
This arrest underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational criminal networks and sends a clear message that those who commit heinous crimes will be brought to justice, regardless of borders.