Summary
Ten police officers in Guatemala were killed during a series of coordinated attacks by gang members following prison riots. The government declared a state of emergency, giving police more powers to handle the situation. This violence began when gang members, including those from the Barrio 18 gang, took hostages and attacked police in response to the capture of their leader.
Key Facts
- Ten police officers died in attacks linked to gang violence in Guatemala.
- The attacks followed riots in three prisons where guards were taken hostage.
- The government declared a 30-day state of emergency which began on Sunday.
- This state of emergency allows police to arrest suspected gang members without a judicial order.
- The violence escalated after security forces regained control of a prison holding the gang leader.
- Gang demands included better prison conditions for leaders and members.
- President Bernardo Arevalo's declaration limits public actions and allows vehicle checks.
- The Barrio 18 gang has a history of uprisings and prison breaks.
