A joint operation involving FBI SWAT teams from Albuquerque, San Diego, and Las Vegas successfully carried out a series of raids in El Paso, resulting in the arrest of 22 individuals who were affiliated with the prison gang known as Chuco Tango.
At the crack of dawn on August 29, federal authorities carried out a series of raids as part of Operation Rock Water, a meticulously planned and ongoing investigation into organized crime. Spearheaded by the FBI and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the operation specifically targeted the El Paso Gang.
In the past four years, authorities have made a significant impact through their ongoing operation. They have achieved 44 arrests, confiscated 65 batches of drugs, seized 25 firearms, and even managed to confiscate military-grade explosives.
Federal law enforcement officials have apprehended members, associates, and drug dealers affiliated with Chuco Tango. These individuals are accused of engaging in the illicit sale of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and illegal firearms within the El Paso community.
The Chuco Tango prison gang has been growing more active on the streets of El Paso in recent years. This gang is a localized version of the Tango Blast gang, known for its presence in various cities in Texas. The gang takes its name from the nickname “El Chuco” given to El Paso.
The FBI officials reported that the operation was conducted in various cities including El Paso, Horizon City, Socorro, Las Cruces, and Anthony, New Mexico. Prisoners were transported to the El Paso County Coliseum for processing due to the significant number of arrests.
Nearly twenty members of the Chuco Tango gang are currently facing a range of federal and state charges. These charges include drug conspiracy, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza expressed his immense pride during a news conference held at the Richard C. White Federal Building in El Paso. He commended the federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who were involved in the extensive and intricate investigation.
“This operation was not a one-time effort but rather a long-term endeavor,” stated Esparza. He further emphasized that the Chuco Tango gang is just one of several issues they are tackling, but they are making gradual progress in addressing it.
During the news conference, federal agents disclosed that four suspects were still on the loose: Jonathan Blanco, Carlos Flores, Adriel Belmont, and Jessica Rodarte. However, as of the evening of August 29, Rodarte was apprehended and is currently in custody, according to a spokesperson from the DEA.
If found guilty, the defendants could potentially receive severe federal penalties, ranging from a minimum of five years to a maximum of life imprisonment. Esparza emphasized that the primary focus of concern lies in the sale of fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is a significant issue in our community, as it is throughout the state and the nation,” stated Esparza. “The Justice Department is committed to safeguarding our communities and loved ones from the hazardous drug and toxin that is fentanyl.”
