Guatemalan Police Transfer 225 Barrio 18 Gang Members from 'El Infiernito' Prison

In a significant operation, Guatemalan police transferred 225 members of the notorious Barrio 18 gang from the 'El Infiernito' prison to a new facility. The prison, located in Escuintla, 43 miles south of the capital, had become infamous for its luxurious conditions and criminal activities orchestrated within its walls.

The transfer, which took place on Sunday, involved 400 police officers and aimed to regain control of the prison. The inmates had been enjoying amenities such as TV sets, fridges, air conditioning, and even raising chickens. Authorities also discovered a call center used for extortion and ordering crimes to be committed outside the prison.

Why this matters: The transfer of 225 Barrio 18 gang members from a notorious prison in Guatemala highlights the country's struggle to combat gang violence and restore order in its prison system. If left unchecked, gang violence can lead to further instability and harm to civilians, undermining the government's authority and threatening regional security.

Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez announced that the facility would be stripped down and rebuilt as a 'real maximum security prison,' emphasizing, 'These are prisons, NOT holidays.' He blamed 'previous governments' for 'handing over control of prisons to criminals.'

The operation comes amid rising concerns about gang violence in Guatemala. In 2023, 4,361 lives were lost as a result of criminal violence, with half of those deaths attributed to gang fighting and drug trafficking. The Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha gangs are fighting for control of territory, extorting money from companies and individuals, and killing those who refuse to comply.

President Bernardo Arevalo has recently stated that some areas of Guatemala City are being held 'prisoner' by gangs. The United Nations has also called for a stop to the recruitment of minors by criminal groups, highlighting the severe impact of gang activities on the country's youth.

The government’s efforts to regain control of the prison facilities are part of a broader strategy to combat gang violence. The transfer of the 225 gang members is seen as a significant step towards restoring order and security within the prison system.

This operation highlights the challenges faced by the Guatemalan authorities in addressing the pervasive influence of gangs within the prison system and the broader society.

Key Takeaways

• Guatemalan police transferred 225 Barrio 18 gang members from a notorious prison to a new facility.
• The prison had luxurious conditions, including TVs, fridges, and a call center for extortion.
• The transfer aims to regain control of the prison and combat gang violence in Guatemala.
• Gang violence has led to 4,361 deaths in 2023, with half attributed to gang fighting and drug trafficking.
• The government's efforts aim to restore order and security within the prison system and broader society.