Hundreds of alleged MS-13 members tried at mass hearing in El Salvador mega-jail
Summary
Hundreds of alleged members of the MS-13 gang faced a mass trial at a prison in El Salvador, accused of more than 29,000 murders. The trial is part of President Nayib Bukele’s wide campaign against gangs that has led to tens of thousands of arrests.Key Facts
- About 220 defendants appeared in the mass trial at the Centre for the Detention of Terrorists (CECOT) prison in El Salvador.
- The accused are charged with carrying out over 29,000 murders collectively.
- The trial includes around 20 alleged gang leaders and many lieutenants.
- Witnesses described violent crimes, including torture and killings ordered by gang leaders from prison.
- The mass trials began in 2022 after President Bukele declared a state of emergency to fight gangs.
- More than 90,000 suspected gang members have been arrested under this state of emergency.
- Human rights groups warn the trials may include innocent people.
- President Bukele's crackdown on gangs has inspired some right-wing politicians in Latin America.
- Last year, US President Donald Trump sent 140 alleged Venezuelan gang members to be held at CECOT.
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