21 Chuco Tango gang members indicted in major roundup across El Paso

Update: In a news conference Thursday, U.S. Attorney General for the Western District of Texas Jaime Esparza, said 21 people with connections to the 'Chuco Tango' gang were arrested in a roundup spanning El Paso today.

Officials said the arrested individuals are suspected of serious drug and firearm offenses.

They are charged with possession, and intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl. 

The investigation was led by the DEA, FBI, and ATF, it started in November of 2023. 

After the arrests, FBI officials said they were processed at the El Paso County Coliseum.

While 21 were arrested, police say four fugitives remain at large. They are Jonathan Blanco, Jessica Rodarte, Carlos Flores, and Adriel Belmont.

Officials said some of the defendants in the operation were indicted both in federal and in state court.

"Regarding the charges of those that were apprehended today, several have been charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Some of these defendants, if convicted, will face up to 20 years in prison or five to 40 years in prison. Some will face from ten years to life in prison," said Jamie Esparza, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas. "Others will have to serve a minimum of 15 years."

"The goal of this investigation is to impact violent crime in El Paso. While every agency here has its own roles, priorities and responsibilities. Fighting violent crime is the responsibility we all share," said Britton Boyd, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge, El Paso.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- FBI is conducting authorized court warrants in parts of west El Paso, according to an FBI spokesperson.

Law enforcement activity was reported on the 600 block of Westway Blvd. and Lakehurst Rd.,Thursday morning.

This is a developing story.