(Texas Scorecard) – As part of a multi-year investigation aimed at stunting drug trafficking and violent gang activity in Uvalde County, Texas law enforcement has rounded up and detained a group of 33 individuals.

According to a Uvalde County press release, several of those arrested were members of gangs such as the Latin Kings, West Texas Tango, Tango Blast, Tango Orejon, Tango Aguilon, Texas Syndicate, Paisas, Texas Mexican Mafia, Maniac Latin Disciples, and San Antonio Walk Down Gang.

Uvalde officials reported that the 33 arrests follow 68 state indictments for crimes ranging from illicit drug trafficking to organized criminal activity. Federal indictments for racketeering and conspiracy were also secured.

Reportedly, most of the current gang members in Uvalde County are the children of other gang members who are already behind bars.

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Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety back in September 2022 to offer assistance to the county and push back against organized criminal efforts.

“Gang violence has no place here in Texas,” Abbott said. “And we will bring the full force of justice down on these heinous criminals.”

Texas DPS continues to apprehend violent criminals around the state. For example, earlier this month, another member of the Paisa gang was captured.

Jesus Alejandro, 40, was present in the United States illegally. Originally from Mexico, he was confirmed to be a member of the Paisa and was apprehended while participating in a human smuggling operation with two teenage smugglers.