FBI to Assist Guatemala in Capturing Fugitive Barrio 18 Leaders

The Guatemalan authorities revealed on Tuesday that the United States is deploying an FBI unit to aid in the apprehension of gang leaders whose escape from prison has spurred a national security emergency in Guatemala.

The break from Fraijanes II correctional facility, near the capital, was made public by local officials last month without specifying the exact timeline of the event. To date, only four escapees have been re-arrested.

Following Washington's actions, Guatemala has also categorized Barrio 18, a gang infamous for its violent and extortionate activities, as a terrorist group.

In response to the jailbreak, the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala labeled the situation as 'completely intolerable' and urged the Guatemalan authorities for swift and decisive measures to reapprehend these fugitives.

Guatemala's President, Bernardo Arevalo, consequently removed Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez from his position. Marco Antonio Villeda, who succeeded Jimenez, has asked for assistance from the FBI in the manhunt.

Marco Antonio Villeda informed the public that the FBI’s specialized unit, created during Donald Trump's presidency to dismantle criminal organizations in Latin America, will be involved in this mission.

Initially aimed at targeting the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang, this task force has been part of broader U.S. efforts, highlighted by the U.S. State Department, to combat gang violence and protect its citizens.

Recently, the Guatemalan Attorney General’s Office has also sought to revoke President Arevalo’s legal immunity to investigate his potential negligence concerning the breakout.