Fact Check: "Transnational gangs often engage in drug trafficking and violence."
What We Know
Transnational gangs are criminal organizations that operate across national borders and are involved in various illicit activities, including drug trafficking and violence. According to the 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment, these gangs are heavily involved in the distribution of narcotics, which contributes significantly to the drug trafficking landscape in the United States. The report highlights that firearms stolen by these gangs are often used to further violent crimes, indicating a direct link between drug trafficking and violence.
Additionally, the ICE Transnational Gangs page outlines that these gangs engage in narcotics trafficking, firearms trafficking, and other criminal activities, further emphasizing their role in violent crime. The prevalence of violence associated with drug trafficking is underscored by the data from the United States Sentencing Commission, which indicates that a significant number of drug trafficking cases involve violent offenses.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that transnational gangs engage in drug trafficking and violence is robust. The 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment is a credible source, published by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which is a federal agency responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. This report is based on extensive data collection and analysis, making it a reliable source for understanding drug-related issues.
The ICE Transnational Gangs report also provides credible information, as it comes from a federal agency focused on immigration and customs enforcement, which includes investigations into transnational crime. The mention of narcotics and firearms trafficking as primary activities of these gangs supports the claim of their involvement in drug-related violence.
Furthermore, the United States Sentencing Commission provides statistical data on drug trafficking offenses, indicating that a significant portion of these cases involves violence. This data is critical in establishing the connection between drug trafficking and violent crime, as it highlights the consequences of these criminal activities.
While the sources are credible, it is important to note that they may have inherent biases based on their governmental affiliations. However, the consistency of the data across multiple reputable sources strengthens the validity of the claim.
Conclusion
The claim that "transnational gangs often engage in drug trafficking and violence" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources demonstrates a clear connection between transnational gangs, drug trafficking, and associated violence. The data provided by the DEA, ICE, and the United States Sentencing Commission supports this assertion, highlighting the significant role these gangs play in the drug trade and the violence that often accompanies it.
