Denver, Colo. — A recent post on a subreddit has raised alarm over allegations that Venezuelan gang members are exerting control over public spaces in Denver and extorting homeless individuals for “protection” money.

According to the post on Reddit, which was highlighted by journalist Andy Ngo, these gangs have reportedly taken over encampments set up by homeless Coloradans and are demanding rent for staying in these areas.

The Reddit user’s claim described a situation where homeless people are coerced into paying rent to remain in their own camps, supposedly for protection.

“Venezuelan gangs took over our encampment and now we have to pay them rent to stay here,” the user wrote. “They say it’s for protection. Protection from who I don’t know.”

Responses to the post have been mixed.

Some users suggested paying the “rent” for safety reasons, while others advised relocating immediately to avoid potential violence. This incident comes amid growing concerns in Colorado about armed Venezuelan gangs, with recent viral video footage capturing gang members taking over an apartment complex in Aurora, Colo.

The footage, recorded by a resident’s doorbell camera, showed a shootout that resulted in one injury and several vehicles being damaged by bullets.

Initially, Colorado Governor Jared Polis’ office dismissed the claims as a product of “imagination,” despite the video evidence. However, Polis later addressed the issue on CNN, urging those with additional evidence to come forward and emphasizing that the state takes such threats “very seriously.”

Governor Polis has been critical of former President Donald Trump’s proposed border wall, calling it “a huge boondoggle and waste of taxpayer money.”

On ABC’s This Week, Polis expressed support for Vice President Kamala Harris’s proposals to address the border crisis, advocating for cost-effective measures to curb the illegal flow of people, guns, and drugs.

The allegations surrounding this situation are immense, however, they are not isolated. Several other areas throughout the state have been experiencing crime at the hands of illegal aliens.

Another group of illegals (believed to be Venezuelan) in Aurora posed as Amazon Delivery personnel who approached a family home with a package and waited for the family to open the door. When the door opened, the suspects forced their way inside and robbed them.

This is a developing story. Encounter News will be providing updates on X as they are made available to the public.

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