PERU – AUGUST 3, 2026 Edinson Valentin Barrera, known by the nickname “Catire”, is a Venezuelan criminal linked to the Tren de Aragua organization, one of the most notorious Venezuelan criminal groups that also operates in other Latin American countries. Peruvian security forces described him as one of the first prominent figures of this organization to appear on Peruvian territory.
Edinson Valentin Barrera
Barrera was arrested in Peru in August 2018 during a police operation at the Plaza Norte shopping center in Lima. At the time, police stated that he was suspected, along with other group members, of planning an armed robbery. According to authorities, weapons, a grenade, and other items related to the planned criminal activity were found during the arrest. The group was linked to the Venezuelan criminal organization Tren de Aragua, which gradually expanded beyond Venezuela.
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For crimes committed in Peru, Barrera was sentenced to eight years in prison, including for illegal possession of weapons and drug-related offenses. However, Peruvian authorities also linked him to much more serious criminal activity in Venezuela. According to investigators, he was allegedly connected to around 25 murders, as well as armed robberies and contract killings in Venezuela and allegedly also in Peru. These accusations mainly concern investigations in his home country.
After serving his sentence, Barrera was expelled from Peru on August 3, 2026. During the transfer, he was placed under strict supervision by members of the Peruvian National Police, who ensured his departure from Peruvian territory and his handover to Venezuelan authorities, his country of origin.
His return to Venezuela did not mark the end of his legal troubles. Venezuelan authorities are expected to continue dealing with him over additional unresolved cases and investigations involving serious violent crimes. If the allegations are confirmed, he will face further legal proceedings.
