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Gang Violence Claims Lives of Seven Police Officers in Guatemala

KVIA•Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 7:05 PM•CNN Newsource

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In a surge of gang-related violence in Guatemala, seven police officers were killed following riots in three prisons. The unrest was initiated by the Barrio 18 gang, led by Aldo Dupié Ochoa, who demanded better treatment and a transfer to another facility. In response to the prison operations, where authorities regained control and rescued hostages, gang members retaliated against the National Police across the country. The Interior Minister, Marco Antonio Villeda, stated that security measures would be heightened at police stations, and all schools will be closed on Monday as a precautionary measure. The situation remains tense as authorities work to regain control of two additional prisons.

Key Details: • Seven police officers were killed in gang retaliation. • Prison riots were led by the Barrio 18 gang and their leader, Aldo Dupié Ochoa. • All schools in Guatemala will be closed on Monday for safety reasons. • Increased security measures are being implemented at police stations.

police guatemala gang-violence prison-riots barrio-18

People & Organizations

GuatemalaNational PoliceMarco Antonio VilledaAldo Dupié OchoaMinistry of Education

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