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6h ago

Guatemala Declares 30-Day State of Siege After Coordinated Prison Mutinies

The 30-day decree broadens security powers pending parliamentary ratification.

Des policiers anti-émeute dans la prison de la Zone 18 lors de violences de gangs, à Guatemala City, Guatemala, le 18 janvier 2026.
Des gardiens reçoivent des soins après avoir été libérés des mains de membres de gangs, le 18 janvier 2026, après une mutinerie la veille à la prison de haute sécurité Renovación I, à Escuintla, au Guatemala
Des soldats prennent position lors de l'opération qui a permis la libération d'otages détenus par des membres de gangs, à la prison de haute sécurité Renovación I, à Escuintla, au Guatemala, le 18 janvier 2016

Overview

  • Security forces retook the Renovación I high-security prison in Escuintla, freed nine detained guards and said Mara 18 leader known as “Lobo” was neutralized.
  • President Bernardo Arévalo said the state had reestablished control at the three prisons where gang members had held 46 people hostage since Saturday.
  • Authorities reported that eight police officers were killed in related attacks in recent days.
  • The mutinies by Barrio 18 and MS-13 were triggered by transfers of their leaders to a high-security facility and the government’s refusal to reverse the move.
  • The state-of-siege measure suspends assembly rights and allows arrests and interrogations without warrants, with approval required from an opposition-led parliament.