Guatemala Declares 30-Day Nationwide State of Emergency to Curb Gang Violence

On the 18th, Guatemalan President Arevalo announced the implementation of a nationwide state of emergency for 30 days in response to the recent wave of violence triggered by prison riots.

In a national radio and television address, Arevalo stated that the purpose of the state of emergency is to ensure public safety, mobilize military and police forces to take necessary action against gangs and criminal groups, and put a stop to their illegal activities.

He said that the state of emergency would not affect citizens' daily lives, the operations of public and private institutions, nor would it interfere with the judicial transition or any other political processes.

Arevalo emphasized that the government will resolutely refuse to negotiate with terrorists or criminal groups and will not meet any of their illegal demands.

On the 17th, large-scale riots broke out in three Guatemalan prisons, with inmates taking dozens of prison guards hostage to demand more privileges for gang leaders held inside.

Multiple regions saw armed attacks resulting in the deaths of 8 police officers.

Subsequently, armed assaults targeting police occurred in multiple parts of the country.

The Guatemalan National Police Agency said on the 18th that eight officers have been killed and several others wounded.

The police agency also indicated that authorities have regained control over one of the riot-hit prisons and have taken into custody a major gang leader who was serving his sentence.

On the 18th, Interior Minister Bileda emphasized that the police will carry out joint operations with the military and will not negotiate with gangs.

Due to these incidents, Guatemala City cancelled its scheduled entertainment events on the 18th. The Ministry of Education announced the closure of schools nationwide for one day on the 19th, and the police have called on citizens to remain at home to avoid gang attacks on civilians.