Guatemala: Increased risk of gang violence in Guatemala City through August

Event

The US State Department has issued a warning for the potential rise in gang violence, including planned attacks on judicial authorities, in Guatemala City through August related to the anniversary of a gang war between Barrio 18 and MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha) that took place on August 15, 2005. While members of the community are typically not targeted, violence between gangs and against local authorities in public places could impact travelers in affected areas. Heightened security measures are expected throughout the city in the coming weeks.

Context

The recent escalation in gang violence in Guatemala is largely due to the dissolution of a truce between the country's two most powerful gangs, Barrio 18 and MS-13. Drug trafficking, gang violence, a weak judicial system, and high gun-ownership rates (with 60 percent of the population owning guns), all contribute to Guatemala having one of the highest violent crime rates in Central America.

While Guatemalans are the main victims of these high crime rates, foreigners have often been targets of armed robbery, theft, assault, rape, murder, and kidnapping.

Advice

Individuals in Guatemala, especially Guatemala City, are advised to remain vigilant and to monitor local media sources. In the event of an armed attack, follow all orders issued by the perpetrators and adopt a cooperative attitude to avoid escalating the situation.