Guatemala: Seven injured in Guatemala City grenade attack on bus Jan. 21

Event

At least seven people were injured when a grenade detonated on a public bus in Guatemala City on Monday, January 21. The attack occurred on bus route 32 in the Quinta Samayoa neighborhood (Zone 7) of the capital. The suspected perpetrator of the attack, a 19-year-old woman, is among the injured and was taken into custody following the incident. An investigation is underway, but authorities believe the attack to have been the result of an extortion attempt by local gang members. 

Context

High rates of gang violence, drug trafficking, judicial impunity, and widespread availability of firearms all contribute to Guatemala's severe risk of violent crime. Local business owners, including bus operators, are regularly targeted in extortion schemes carried out by gangs; gang members regularly attack or murder those unable or unwilling to pay. 

Advice

Individuals in Guatemala City are advised to remain vigilant at all times and refrain from traveling via public transportation due to security concerns. In the event of an assault, follow all orders issued by the perpetrators and adopt a cooperative attitude to avoid an escalation of the situation.