Texas officials designated the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a “foreign terrorist organization” and echoed former President Trump’s claim that many migrants crossing into the U.S. were released from Latin American prisons.

Texas border official Mike Banks accused Venezuela of releasing prisoners and blamed the Biden administration’s border policies.

Immigration advocates, however, argue that the administration has imposed strict border controls, CBS News has reported.

Gov. Greg Abbott’s declaration enables authorities to target the gang under anti-terrorism laws.

Trump also called for large-scale deportations.

Written by B.C. Begley