Trump, in his nationwide immigration crackdown, has labeled Tren de Aragua an invading force as he invoked the Alien Enemies Act, a little-used authority from 1798 that allows the president to deport any noncitizen during wartime.

The takedown marks the first time members of the Venezuelan gang are facing charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

Twenty seven alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang have been indicted on charges ranging from racketeering, sex trafficking, narcotics, robbery, carjacking and firearms possession, authorities said Tuesday.