03 Dec 2022 | 11:51 PM UTC
El Salvador: Authorities deploy large number of army troops and police officers to Soyapango as of Dec. 3 as part of crackdown on gang activity
Authorities in El Salvador deploy some 10,000 security personnel to Soyapango as of Dec. 3 to conduct anti-gang operation.
Event
Authorities have deployed an estimated 10,000 army troops and police officers to Soyapango township on the outskirts of San Salvador as of Dec. 3. The action is part of the nationwide state of emergency introduced to curb gang-related violence in the country. Security forces have established checkpoints on major thoroughfares and are checking all individuals attempting to enter or exit Soyapango; officers are also conducting house-to-house searches for gang members.
It remains unclear how long the deployment in Soyapango will last. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely until the force completes its mission and vacates the area. Armed clashes between security personnel and criminal elements could occur during arrest attempts.
Advice
If operating in Soyapango, exercise extreme caution until authorities have completed their security mission and withdrawn the participating forces. Allow additional time for travel in the area; remain courteous and cooperative if stopped and questioned by law enforcement personnel.
