17 Jan 2020 | 03:35 PM UTC
Guatemala: President declares state of emergency in two cities January 17
President Giammattei declares state of emergency in Mixco and San Juan Sacatepequez on January 17 in response to gang violence; heightened security presence expected in the near term
Event
On Friday, January 17, President Alejandro Giammattei declared a state of emergency in the cities of Mixco and San Juan Sacatepequez, located on the outskirts of Guatemala City, due to rampant gang violence. Additional security forces will reportedly be deployed to the municipalities. Giammattei, who was inaugurated on January 14, has vowed to clamp down on crime in the country.
Heightened security measures, including checkpoints and an increase in police operations, are anticipated in Mixco and San Juan Sacatepequez in the near term.
Advice
Individuals in the area are advised to monitor the situation, follow instructions issued by the local authorities, and remain vigilant.
