Joel Matos-Nieto/Venezuela/Tren de Aragua Gang Member

On April 23, 2025, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Denver arrested Joel Matos-Nieto, a 23-year-old Venezuelan national identified as a member of the transnational criminal organization Tren de Aragua. Matos-Nieto was taken into custody in Colorado following confirmation of his illegal presence in the United States and his existing final order of removal.

Matos-Nieto’s criminal history includes multiple convictions in the U.S., including motor vehicle theft, obstructing a police officer, and criminal mischief. These offenses, coupled with his affiliation with Tren de Aragua—a violent gang linked to widespread criminal activity across South and Central America—prompted ICE to prioritize his apprehension. His continued unlawful presence in the country posed a significant public safety concern.

ICE officers located Matos-Nieto during targeted enforcement actions and arrested him without incident. Following his arrest, he was processed and transferred to a secure detention facility where he now awaits removal. As he has already been issued a final order of removal by an immigration judge, ICE intends to proceed with deportation in accordance with U.S. immigration law.

ICE confirmed that Matos-Nieto has no pending appeals or legal avenues remaining to remain in the United States.