The death toll from coordinated attacks by suspected gang members on Guatemalan police rose to nine on Monday, prompting President Bernardo Arévalo to impose a 30-day state of emergency that curtails several civil rights and expands security powers.
National Civil Police Director David Custodio Boteo said a ninth officer died early Monday from injuries sustained in the attacks, while several others remain in critical condition. Some officers also suffered amputations.
The violence erupted over the weekend after inmates seized control of three prisons in apparently coordinated riots, taking 43 guards hostage. Authorities said the gangs were demanding privileges for their members and leaders. Shortly after police regained control of one prison on Sunday morning, suspected gang members launched a wave of attacks against police across the capital.
On Monday, police honored the fallen officers in a ceremony at the Interior Ministry, where flag-draped coffins were displayed. President Arévalo said the nation would not forget the sacrifice of the officers who died in the line of duty.
The government gazette published the emergency decree on Monday, citing “coordinated actions by self-named maras or gangs against state security forces, including armed attacks against civilian authorities.”
Under the emergency measures, authorities have limited freedom of movement and demonstrations. Police are also allowed to detain suspected gang members without a judicial order and may restrict or search vehicles in designated areas.
The unicameral Congress approved the state of emergency with minor changes on Monday night by a vote of 149 to 1, with 10 lawmakers absent or on approved leave. The decree, however, took effect on Sunday.
Traffic in Guatemala City was lighter than usual on Monday as residents stayed indoors amid heightened security. Schools were suspended nationwide as a precaution.
The US Embassy in Guatemala condemned the attacks on police and reaffirmed its support for Guatemala’s security forces. It had earlier instructed US government personnel to shelter in place on Sunday before later lifting the order and advising continued caution.
In October, Guatemala’s Congress amended the law to designate members of the Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha gangs as terrorists, increasing prison sentences for gang-related crimes. The United States also designated the two groups as foreign terrorist organizations last year.