Guatemala's president just hit the panic button after gangs wiped out nine cops. Bernardo Arevalo declared a nationwide state of siege following the lethal violence in the capital. The move awaits congressional approval but takes immediate effect, potentially suspending certain constitutional rights. Authorities believe the killings were retaliation for retaking three maximum security prisons previously seized by inmates.
Incarcerated gang members lost privileges, sparking riots where dozens of guards were held hostage. No deaths occurred during the government's prison operations. Arevalo's administration has pursued a crackdown on gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18, groups designated as terrorist organizations by Guatemala and the United States. The government refuses to negotiate with these gangs.
The declaration mirrors a similar emergency measure enacted in El Salvador, which received praise from some foreign leaders. Human rights groups have criticized such police practices and judicial processes in the region. Guatemalan police chief David Boteo advised citizens to remain indoors, while the education ministry canceled all classes nationwide. The constitution permits a siege when civilian authorities cannot contain internal disorder.
Incarcerated gang members lost privileges, sparking riots where dozens of guards were held hostage. No deaths occurred during the government's prison operations. Arevalo's administration has pursued a crackdown on gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18, groups designated as terrorist organizations by Guatemala and the United States. The government refuses to negotiate with these gangs.
The declaration mirrors a similar emergency measure enacted in El Salvador, which received praise from some foreign leaders. Human rights groups have criticized such police practices and judicial processes in the region. Guatemalan police chief David Boteo advised citizens to remain indoors, while the education ministry canceled all classes nationwide. The constitution permits a siege when civilian authorities cannot contain internal disorder.
