UPDATE: A major federal operation in San Antonio has resulted in the detention of over 140 immigrants, sparking controversy and raising questions about the individuals involved. Court records obtained by KSAT Investigates reveal that two men, Marcos Contreras-Max and Edwin Javier Chinchilla-Lopez, both from Honduras, have been formally charged with illegal re-entry into the United States following the raid conducted on November 16, 2025.
Authorities have confirmed that the operation targeted the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, but no evidence currently links Contreras-Max or Chinchilla-Lopez to the criminal organization. The raid, which took place near Basse Road and San Pedro Avenue, was part of a broader initiative led by the newly established HSTF-South Texas aimed at disrupting gang activity across the region.
According to a press release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, this operation is a critical step in combating sophisticated criminal networks involved in a range of offenses including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and extortion. Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the operation’s connection to a sex and human trafficking organization linked to Tren de Aragua, stating, “About 200 illegal immigrants were apprehended. More of this to come.”
Protesters have rallied in response to the operation, expressing concern over the mass detentions. Many of those apprehended are from Venezuela, Honduras, and other South American countries, and there remains significant uncertainty regarding the specific charges they may face.
The Texas Department of Public Safety played a crucial role in this operation, providing support that led to the execution of search warrants during the raid. As the investigation unfolds, officials have yet to disclose additional details about the individuals detained or their potential connections to Tren de Aragua.
The community is left in shock as this operation unfolds, and many are calling for transparency regarding the treatment of those detained. As authorities continue their efforts against organized crime, the implications for local immigrant populations are significant and deeply concerning.
What’s next? Watch for updates as more information is expected to be released, particularly regarding the status of the detained individuals and any legal proceedings that may arise. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments are anticipated in the coming days.
