Story perspectives

87 Indicted in TdA's Multi-Million Dollar ATM Fraud

1/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

A federal grand jury indicted 87 individuals linked to Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Venezuelan terrorist organization, for a jackpotting ATM-fraud scheme.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nebraska described many defendants as illegal aliens affiliated with TdA.
Prosecutors say TdA used Ploutus malware to hack ATMs and steal millions, funding human trafficking and murder, as the Justice Department dismantles TdA's U.S. operations and anticipates more arrests.

History

Historical Context

In 2013, the U.S. Department of Justice reported a 30% rise in cybercrime, reflecting the growing threat of organized crime. The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua has been linked to serious offenses like human trafficking and ATM jackpotting. The recent indictment of 87 individuals highlights ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime networks that exploit technology, prompting potential shifts in law enforcement strategies.

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Story summary

A federal grand jury indicted 87 individuals linked to Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Venezuelan terrorist organization, for a jackpotting ATM-fraud scheme.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nebraska described many defendants as illegal aliens affiliated with TdA.
Prosecutors say TdA used Ploutus malware to hack ATMs and steal millions, funding human trafficking and murder, as the Justice Department dismantles TdA's U.S. operations and anticipates more arrests.

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