Tensions are building in Chicago as the arrival of Venezuelan migrants and the violent Tren de Aragua gang threatens to spark a dangerous conflict with local gangs. Tyrone Muhammad, a former Gangster Disciples enforcer turned community activist, expressed concerns that the growing presence of foreign gangs is pushing the city’s already strained African-American communities to the brink. Muhammad, who now runs a street patrol group called Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, warned, “The city is going to go up in flames” if the situation worsens.

The influx of migrants has caused outrage among many residents who see their neighborhoods overrun by individuals who receive government assistance, while local communities continue to struggle. According to Muhammad, the criminal activities of the Tren de Aragua gang are making an already dangerous environment worse. “When the Black gangs here get fed up with the criminal activities of these migrants, there will be bloodshed,” he said.

Chicago has spent nearly half a billion dollars to accommodate more than 42,000 migrants in just two years. Venezuelan gangs, including the Tren de Aragua, have reportedly begun taking over certain South Side neighborhoods. Some migrants are receiving housing and financial aid, causing resentment among locals who believe they are being pushed aside.

Corey Rogers, a Black P. Stone Nation member, shared his frustration with the growing influence of the Venezuelan gangs. He showed threats of turf wars on a gang-related WhatsApp thread and said, “The Venezuelans are united, while the Black gangs are too divided and fighting among themselves.”

Despite the denials from local shelters, reports of migrant-related crimes continue to emerge, with accusations ranging from sex trafficking to drug dealing. Community members like Octavia Mitchell, who lost her son to gun violence, feel neglected by city leaders who they say prioritize migrants over the needs of long-time residents.