Guatemalan Interior Minister Resigns After 20 Barrio 18 Gangsters Escape
Guatemala’s Interior Minister, Francisco Jiménez, has resigned following the escape of 20 members of the Barrio 18 gang. This incident occurred in August and has raised serious concerns about the country’s security management. The resignation comes after President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed that he had accepted Jiménez’s departure, along with those of José Portillo, the Deputy Minister of Security, and Claudia Palencia, the Deputy Minister for Anti-Drug and Border Security.
Details of the Gang Escape
The gang members who escaped are implicated in severe crimes, including rape, murder, extortion, and human trafficking. The announcement of the escape was made by the director of the Penitentiary System in a press conference on Sunday. It was noted that some of the escapees were leaders who had broken out of the maximum-security facility Fraijanes II.
Allegations of Corruption
José Portillo tendered his resignation late Tuesday. He also filed four corruption complaints against Jiménez and Palencia, claiming they were involved in irregularities within the Ministry. Portillo specifically accused Palencia of illegal charges within prisons, as reported in local media.
Government Response
During a social media address, President Arévalo discussed the need for changes in the security team, stating, “I have decided to make changes in the personnel responsible for security tasks.” He assured the public that appointments for new officials would be announced shortly.
Future Security Measures
To address these security challenges, the government plans to construct a new maximum-security prison. This project will involve collaboration with the United States government and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Designation of Barrio 18
Last month, the U.S. Department of State designated Barrio 18 as a terrorist organization. This classification underscores the severity of the threat posed by the gang.
- Number of Escapees: 20 Barrio 18 gangsters
- Crimes Committed: Rape, murder, extortion, human trafficking
- Key Officials Resigned: Francisco Jiménez, José Portillo, Claudia Palencia
- Location of Escape: Maximum-security prison Fraijanes II
- U.S. Designation: Terrorist organization
The recent developments highlight significant challenges in Guatemala’s efforts to combat gang violence and corruption within the government.
