In a significant law enforcement operation, José Antonio Márquez Morales, also known as Caracas, was apprehended in Valledupar, Colombia. He is alleged to be the leader of the armed wing of the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been involved in extortion, drug trafficking, and smuggling. The operation was a collaborative effort between Colombia, the US, and the UK, highlighting international concerns over the gang's activities. Márquez Morales was subject to an Interpol Red Notice, indicating the seriousness of his alleged crimes. The arrest occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela, particularly following the Trump administration's aggressive anti-drug trafficking measures, which included deploying warships and bombing vessels suspected of transporting drugs from Venezuela. President Nicolás Maduro has denied allegations of collusion with drug cartels and has defended his government's stance on drug trafficking.