NYPD shooter claims Venezuelan gang smuggles guns into NYC shelters
An illegal alien accused of shooting two NYPD officers has alleged that a Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua, is smuggling guns into city shelters by hiding them in food delivery bags, prosecutors revealed Wednesday.
Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, 19, made these explosive accusations during a Queens criminal court hearing, leading to his placement in protective custody.
Mata confessed from his hospital bed, admitting his membership in the gang and detailing how he was directed to commit robberies.
“Tren de Aragua members are smuggling firearms into city shelters in food delivery packages – that way they don’t have to go through the metal detectors,” Mata disclosed to police, as per the recordings.
Mata’s defense attorney, who entered a not guilty plea, requested protective custody for his client, which the judge granted. Mata was ordered held without bail.