According to the FBI and HSI, the task force is already involved in several significant operations.
SAN ANTONIO — Federal officials have launched a new regional task force aimed at targeting transnational criminal organizations operating in South Texas, according to the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.
The Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF-South Texas) was formally announced Monday by the FBI San Antonio Field Office and HSI San Antonio. The agencies said the initiative is designed to combat cartels, foreign terrorist organizations and transnational gangs involved in violent crime, human trafficking, drug smuggling and money laundering.
Federal officials said the task force is a regional component of the national Homeland Security Task Force created under Executive Order 14159, signed by President Donald Trump in January 2025.
FBI San Antonio Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran said the task force is intended to strengthen collaboration among federal, state and local agencies.
“We are dedicated to dismantling the cartels and criminal networks responsible for violent crime, human trafficking, and drug smuggling with the ultimate goal of preserving the safety and security of the communities we serve,” Doran said in a statement.
HSI San Antonio Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Lippa said the increased coordination will help law enforcement focus on dismantling drug cartels and terrorist organizations.
“This collaborative initiative underscores our steadfast dedication to ensuring the safety and security of America,” Lippa said.
According to the FBI and HSI, the task force is already involved in several significant operations, including:
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Disrupting the Tren de Aragua criminal network on November 16 in San Antonio. Officials said more than 140 people from Venezuela, Honduras, Mexico and other South American countries were taken into ICE custody as part of the operation.
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A superseding federal indictment issued October 28 in a money laundering case involving a father and son accused of providing material support to a Mexican cartel designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The indictment includes a notice seeking forfeiture of approximately 77,000 barrels of crude oil, $2.5 million in funds and a $300 million money judgment.
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The interception of 534 firearms and more than 31,000 rounds of ammunition on October 23 in the Laredo area before the weapons could be trafficked into Mexico. Two men were charged with smuggling firearms and related accessories.
Officials said HSTF-South Texas will focus on protecting critical infrastructure, addressing evolving national security threats and strengthening coordination among agencies across the region.