Conoce cómo avanzan las acciones y coordinaciones para fortalecer la seguridad del país

Welcome and Introduction Presidential Press Conference

Opening Remarks

• The press conference begins with a welcome to the media, acknowledging their presence and importance.

• President Bernardo Arevalo is introduced, accompanied by key officials including the Minister of Governance and the Minister of Defense.

National Mourning

• The president acknowledges the national mourning period for fallen heroes of the National Civil Police, marking it as a time of sadness and reflection.

• A minute of silence is observed in honor of ten police officers who died in service to their country.

Government Response to Security Challenges Addressing National Security

Commitment to Honor Fallen Heroes

• The president emphasizes the government's duty to honor fallen officers by strengthening security and justice for all Guatemalans.

• He asserts that recent government actions have yielded significant results against gangs within 48 hours.

Actions Against Criminal Organizations

• The government successfully regained control over three prisons after a riot involving hostages, achieving this without casualties.

• A state of emergency has been declared to protect families from criminal organizations, emphasizing unity among citizens against crime.

Strengthening Law Enforcement Collaborative Efforts

Joint Operations

• Joint operations between the National Civil Police and the Army are underway to enhance security measures against organized crime.

• The president reassures citizens that these efforts respect legal frameworks while combating terror instilled by criminals.

Results from Recent Measures

• Within 48 hours of declaring a state of emergency, law enforcement has arrested 23 gang members linked to major criminal groups.

Challenges in Prisons Reforming Penitentiary System

Overview of Prison Conditions

• The Minister of Governance discusses challenges faced in managing overcrowded prisons which currently house 23,000 inmates instead of the intended capacity for 6,000.

Need for Systematic Change

• Emphasis on reforming an underfunded penitentiary system that lacks international safety standards; described as "time bombs" due to poor conditions.

Addressing Prison Overcrowding and Criminal Reform

Plans for New Prisons

• The government aims to construct two new prisons this year to alleviate overcrowding and improve management of the prison system.

• Discussions with various deputies are ongoing to implement legal reforms for individuals who have completed their sentences but remain incarcerated due to administrative bottlenecks.

Legal Reforms Needed

• A comprehensive reform of money laundering laws is necessary, allowing conversion of hefty fines into community service instead of lengthy prison sentences.

• The proposed reforms aim to address systemic issues within the justice system that contribute to overcrowding in prisons.

Stance Against Criminal Groups

• The current administration refuses to negotiate or grant privileges to criminal organizations, contrasting with previous governments' practices. This stance has led to violent retaliations from these groups against state security forces.

• The emotional toll on families of fallen officers is acknowledged, emphasizing the government's commitment not to yield under pressure from criminal elements.

Response to Prison Riots

• Recent riots in prisons were instigated by a gang known as Barrio 18, stemming from restrictions on amenities like air conditioning and controlled visits. These riots were effectively quelled within 24 hours without casualties among law enforcement.

• Following the restoration of order, recognition and financial support for families of fallen officers was ordered by the government as a gesture of appreciation for their sacrifice.

Ongoing Security Operations

• Since declaring a state of emergency, significant arrests have been made: 293 individuals apprehended along with numerous weapons and vehicles seized over several days. This reflects an intensified effort against organized crime during this period.

• The government emphasizes its determination not to be intimidated by violence from criminal organizations and commits all available resources towards dismantling these gangs once and for all.

Collaboration Between Forces

• Joint operations between national police and military forces are being conducted in vulnerable areas across multiple departments, enhancing security measures throughout Guatemala's penitentiary system amidst ongoing threats from criminal factions.

Response to Criminal Structures in Guatemala

Coordinated Efforts Against Crime

• The collaboration between the National Civil Police, the Ministry of Governance, and the Penitentiary System has led to a robust response against criminal organizations. This is highlighted by the activation of protocols under decree 42.000 and governmental agreement 285 2012, ensuring legal compliance during operations.

Operational Focus Areas

• The Guatemalan army has concentrated its efforts on two key operational scenarios to enhance control:

• Strengthening perimeter surveillance at correctional facilities, particularly those that faced issues recently.

Security Measures Implemented

• Peripheral security rings have been established to hinder communication between incarcerated criminals and those outside. This aims to prevent external destabilization attempts by criminal structures and ensure effective control over critical infrastructures.

Increased Patrols for Immediate Response

• Combined patrols with the National Civil Police are being intensified as a proactive measure against potential threats, adhering strictly to human rights protocols and legal frameworks during their execution. These measures have shown immediate results in addressing criminal activities.

Ongoing Operations for Democratic Security

• Operations "Centinela" and "Cinturón de Fuego" continue nationwide as planned, reinforcing democratic security while respecting human rights. The government expresses confidence in these actions yielding positive outcomes against organized crime.

Questions from Journalists

Inquiry on U.S. Embassy Leadership

• A journalist questions whether there is confirmation regarding who will lead the business section of the U.S. embassy in Guatemala amidst ongoing processes for appointing an ambassador from the U.S., which is lengthy.

Concerns Over Legal Actions Against Gang Members

• Questions arise about whether failing to charge a gang member linked to an attack on police agents constitutes negligence by the Public Ministry (MP) and if this could impact the Attorney General's coordination with prosecutors involved in such cases.

Government's Stance on Legal Proceedings

Critique of Public Ministry's Decisions

• The President criticizes the MP for not charging individuals arrested during active operations despite having sufficient evidence, labeling it as both shameful and suspicious behavior that undermines justice for victims' families affected by violence. He emphasizes accountability among prosecutors who fail their duties effectively.

Extradition Requests Not Received

• In response to inquiries about extraditing certain individuals, it was stated that no formal requests have been made by any foreign governments regarding these matters; emphasizing that Guatemala must resolve its own issues independently through new prison constructions aimed at controlling criminal elements effectively within its borders.

Security Concerns and Cyber Legislation in Guatemala

Overview of Security Issues

• The Minister of Defense is acknowledged, highlighting the ongoing public security issues in Guatemala. Two military prevention centers are mentioned: Cuartel de Matamoros and Zona 17.

Personal Experience with Public Safety

• Journalist Jorge Roldán shares a personal incident involving a bus ride that turned alarming when the driver deviated from the route, causing panic among passengers who feared a kidnapping.

Technology and Cybersecurity Challenges

• Roldán raises concerns about technological advancements leading to increased insecurity, referencing Guatemala's lack of adherence to the Budapest Convention on cybercrime signed in 2002.

• He mentions an initiative discussed in Congress regarding cybersecurity legislation that was stalled, sharing a personal anecdote about a friend's experience with hacking and financial loss.

Legislative Initiatives for Cybersecurity

• The President responds by stating that they have not only revived the stalled cybersecurity initiative but are also analyzing it within a broader framework aimed at modernizing state processes.

• Recommendations from the National Cybersecurity Council (Concibre) are being integrated into new legislative proposals with support from civil society and international partners like the Inter-American Development Bank.

International Support for Cyber Defense

• The President notes assistance from both the United States and Taiwan in developing cybersecurity mechanisms, emphasizing their role in managing recent international cyberattacks effectively.

Upcoming Legislative Proposals

• A commitment is made to present comprehensive cybersecurity legislation to Congress soon, ensuring it meets high technical standards globally.

Election Processes and Government Oversight

Questions on Election Monitoring

• Journalist Alejandro Gramajo asks about government oversight concerning upcoming elections for key judicial positions, including how these processes will be monitored by the executive branch.

Resignation of Urban Development Official

• Gramajo queries about Vice Minister Sergio Pérez's resignation and whether there is already a successor lined up.

Legal Framework Concerns

• There’s discussion around potential changes to laws governing acceptance of charges as raised by Director David Custodio Boteo amidst ongoing legal challenges faced by officials.

Executive Branch's Role in Elections

• The President clarifies that while they monitor election processes closely, these occur outside direct executive control; he emphasizes constitutional responsibilities regarding electoral integrity.

Election Changes and Legal Framework in Guatemala

The Need for Professional Candidates

• The importance of having decent professionals participate in elections to effectuate change within the country's structures is emphasized. This follows the resignation of the Vice Minister of Housing, with announcements expected soon regarding presidential updates.

Understanding the Law of Acceptance of Charges

• The Law of Acceptance of Charges was introduced to alleviate pressure on courts, modeled after Anglo-Saxon legal systems where a significant percentage (85%) of cases are resolved through negotiations between prosecutors and defense attorneys.

Purpose and Functionality

• The law aims to avoid trials by allowing accused individuals to accept responsibility, leading to negotiated sentencing agreements. It has been effective in other countries but faces challenges in Guatemala due to misuse.

Misapplication Issues

• Problems arise not from the law itself but from its improper application; individuals are often charged without sufficient evidence, leading them into preventive detention until they feel pressured to accept charges for release.

Coercive Practices Highlighted

• There is a pattern where individuals are kept in preventive detention under poor evidence conditions, which undermines the original intent of decongesting courts and instead serves as coercion for guilty pleas. This reflects moral failings among those applying the law rather than flaws within the legislation itself.

State Measures and Public Safety Concerns

Clarifications on State of Emergency Measures

• Questions arise regarding public events during a state of emergency; while some activities like Masate Carnival were suspended, others remain uncertain, such as large motorcycle gatherings like "caravana del zorro." Authorities assure that measures do not impede lawful citizen activities.

Security Operations Update

• Recent operations have led to several arrests and seizures aimed at preventing attacks against police forces; there was a direct attack on National Civil Police agents that was successfully repelled. Authorities emphasize ongoing efforts for public safety amidst these challenges.

Legislative Context

• Officials clarify that recent decrees related to emergency measures do not infringe upon citizens' rights, aiming instead at enhancing security capabilities without disrupting normal civic life or activities.

State of Emergency and Security Measures

Purpose of the State of Emergency

• The state of emergency aims to ensure the safety, life, and social peace for all citizens in response to potential terrorist acts by criminal groups known as gangs or "maras."

• It is crucial to clarify that everyday activities such as work, commerce, and celebrations remain unaffected during this period.

Justification for Security Actions

• The state of emergency provides necessary tools to the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Governance to combat gangs effectively.

• Security forces are on high alert for any risk-related information which will be communicated promptly.

Prison System Concerns

• A question arises regarding whether there were indications of inmate escapes during recent riots; currently, no evidence supports this claim.

• The country has never conducted a proper census within its penitentiary system; however, it is reported that 90% completion has been achieved with a deadline set for February 10th.

Political Stability and Criminal Activity

• Recent events have raised concerns about potential destabilization efforts linked to pre-electoral tensions and ongoing elections for justice authorities like the Public Ministry and Constitutional Court.

• Questions posed include how these situations are perceived by leadership and if there have been any negotiations with criminal groups regarding their demands.

Nature of Terrorist Acts

• Terrorist acts aim to instill fear, destabilize society, intimidate individuals, and create confusion among the populace. Examples include coordinated attacks on police officers and prisons as reactions from criminal groups against government control efforts.

• Various criminal actors collaborate towards common goals that threaten governmental stability while undermining justice institutions amidst upcoming elections aimed at restoring order.

International Relations Context

• There has been ongoing communication between local security forces and U.S. agencies concerning collaborative security measures; however, no high-level contacts have occurred recently due to monitoring operations being conducted locally.

Reflection on Past Decisions

• A journalist raises a point about past opposition from the president regarding states of emergency when he was a deputy; questions arise about why similar preventive measures weren't taken earlier in his administration despite acknowledging different contexts now compared to then.

Strengthening the State and Addressing Gang Violence

The Current Situation in Prisons

• The speaker emphasizes that the current actions taken are aimed at strengthening the state, particularly in response to gang activities within prisons.

• Previous governments allowed gangs to thrive by providing them with luxuries inside prisons, which led to a lack of control over criminal operations.

• The speaker acknowledges the challenges faced due to decades of neglect in the prison system, highlighting inadequate facilities and resources.

Efforts for Institutional Recovery

• A comprehensive approach is being implemented to recover justice institutions and reform the penitentiary system, including building new prisons with high security standards.

• The current government’s actions are framed as necessary costs associated with strengthening state authority against organized crime.

State of Emergency Measures

• The declaration of a state of emergency was not initially intended for controlling riots but rather for conducting security operations against criminal gangs.

• Within two days of declaring a state of emergency, 23 ministers were captured, indicating an aggressive stance on dismantling criminal networks.

Funding and Resource Allocation

• Questions arise regarding previously allocated funds (200 million quetzals) for maximum-security prison construction and their current status amidst budget cuts.

• Clarification is provided that these funds are designated for purchasing equipment for law enforcement and improving prison systems.

Coordination Between Law Enforcement Agencies

• There is an emphasis on collaboration between police forces and public prosecutors to ensure accountability in capturing criminals during ongoing investigations.

• The police's role includes both prevention and active pursuit of suspects involved in crimes, ensuring evidence is properly handed over to judicial authorities.

Responsibility of Criminal Prosecution

Role of the Ministry of Public Affairs

• The Ministry of Public Affairs holds the exclusive authority for criminal prosecution and is responsible for initiating legal actions based on evidence provided by law enforcement.

• The Ministry of Governance does not have the power to charge individuals in court, emphasizing that only the Ministry of Public Affairs can make such imputations.

Process Following Arrest

• After an arrest, it is the responsibility of the Ministry of Public Affairs to formally accuse individuals before a judge, ensuring all legal procedures are followed.

• Former public prosecutors, through designated attorneys, present charges in court against accused individuals.

Funding and Security in Prisons

Renovation Projects

• Questions arise regarding funding for prison renovations, specifically concerning a maximum-security facility known as "Renovación 1."

• The Minister indicates that Renovación 1 will undergo reconstruction with necessary protocols to prevent past issues from recurring.

Crisis Management Response

• A journalist queries about the Minister's actions during a crisis involving police attacks after regaining control over prisons.

• The Minister reveals he was engaged in crisis committee meetings since Saturday, coordinating responses and strategies with intelligence officials and penitentiary staff.

Emotional Impact and Strategic Decisions

Reaction to Attacks

• Upon learning about violent attacks against police forces during prison operations, the Minister expresses feelings of pain and indignation towards these acts.

• He highlights that their successful operation had no casualties among hostages or security forces until these unexpected attacks occurred.

Military Support Deployment

• In response to escalating violence, a decision was made to deploy joint military operations alongside national police forces to manage ongoing threats effectively.

Ensuring Maximum Security Protocol Compliance

Importance of Protocol Adherence

• The Minister stresses that maintaining maximum security requires more than just physical infrastructure; adherence to strict protocols is essential for managing inmates effectively.

• He notes failures in protocol compliance contributed significantly to chaos within prisons, allowing inmates to take guards hostage.

Control and Intelligence in Guatemalan Prisons

Efficient Operations to Regain Control

• The operation to regain control of the prison was executed with high intelligence, resulting in no casualties among either hostages or inmates.

• Historical context shows that since 2003, Guatemala has faced severe riots leading to fatalities; however, this operation was marked by effective intelligence and action from security forces.

Challenges of Hostage Situations

• The complexity of hostage situations arises when guards are taken captive, which can lead to inmates gaining control over the prison environment.

State of Emergency Analysis

• Questions were raised regarding the macroeconomic impact of the state of emergency declared for combating crime and its implications on risk ratings.

• Future considerations for families living under these conditions were discussed, emphasizing the need for safety amidst ongoing threats.

Immediate Reactions to Threats

• Authorities reacted swiftly to prevent brutal attacks against police forces and dismantle criminal operations threatening public safety.

Economic Implications of Criminal Control

• A lack of control over criminal groups could negatively affect economic stability and deter foreign investment due to perceived insecurity.

• The worst-case scenario involves allowing criminals to dominate prisons, which would further undermine legal certainty necessary for capital investments.

Resource Management During Emergencies

• Discussions highlighted a commitment not to misuse resources during states of emergency as seen in previous administrations.

Protocol Improvements Post-Incident

• Coordination with anti-corruption officials ensured that emergency measures would be used appropriately without past abuses.

Addressing Riots and Inmate Demands

• Prior warnings from inmates about potential riots led authorities to reinforce security around penitentiaries but challenges remain when guards are taken hostage.

Success in Crisis Management

• Despite historical challenges with inmate uprisings, efficient management allowed authorities to regain control within 24 hours while ensuring the safety of hostages.

Discussion on Security Measures and Political Structures

Overview of Military Involvement in Security

• The Minister of Defense discusses the frequent military reinforcement requests to secure prisons due to alerts from the Ministry of Governance.

• Emphasizes that while security measures are routinely implemented, significant incidents have occurred, leading to successful operations with no casualties.

Functionality of the Security System

• The Minister asserts that the security system is operational and effective in controlling situations within a reasonable timeframe.

• Encourages public trust in authorities, highlighting efforts to dismantle corruption and criminal structures through citizen reports.

Political Collusion with Criminal Elements

• A journalist questions the President about destabilizing political structures and their connection to criminal groups like Maras.

• The President reveals knowledge of collusion between criminal organizations and political actors, citing past investigations into threats against him.

Mechanisms of Corruption and Crime

• Discusses how political interests often collaborate with criminals to create instability or violence.

• Notes a lack of specific evidence against individuals but describes a broader phenomenon where corrupt elites engage in collusion for mutual benefit.

Updates on Gang Arrests

• A journalist asks for details on recent arrests of gang members, specifically if they are leaders or regular members; however, detailed profiles are not available at this time.

Concerns Over Prison Management and International Relations

Critique of Prison Conditions

• A journalist criticizes the effectiveness of maximum-security centers following a mutiny incident, questioning promises made by the President regarding prison reforms.

Issues with Security Equipment

• Questions arise about signal blockers previously discussed; there is uncertainty about progress on this issue since last year.

International Dialogue on Security

• Inquiry into recent communications with Salvadoran leadership regarding security support for Guatemala amidst ongoing issues in Citéo.

Expectations for Law Enforcement Results

• Journalists express concerns over whether current law enforcement successes will be sustained throughout the year as expectations rise for continued results.

Visibility of Law Enforcement Presence

• Observations from journalists indicate a lack of police presence in certain areas despite claims made by officials about increased visibility.

Government's Approach to Security and Crime Control

Initial Offer and Commitment to Security

• The government has made a commitment to restore public safety by addressing the issue of impunity that hampers security operations. This is part of a broader strategy to take decisive action against crime.

• Acknowledgment that there are no quick fixes; transforming decades of neglect into effective results will require time and consistent effort, akin to achieving standards seen in countries like Switzerland.

Progressive Recovery Process

• The government initiated a recovery process, starting with an area previously known as "infiernito," now referred to as "renovación." This involved isolating key criminal leaders in high-security conditions.

• Specific prisons were identified for this operation, including Zone 18 and Fraijanes, where notorious criminals were relocated under strict security measures.

Challenges Faced During Implementation

• There have been challenges with inmates attempting to regain control within prisons, but the government successfully reasserted order shortly after these attempts. This indicates ongoing resistance from criminal elements.

• The government's approach involves continuous efforts to reclaim control over prison environments, emphasizing that significant changes cannot happen overnight but will progress steadily over time.

Criminal Resistance and Historical Context

• Criminal groups are expected to resist due to their established autonomy and collusion over time; however, the government remains committed to advancing its security agenda despite these challenges.

• Historical parallels are drawn with Italy's long-term fight against organized crime, highlighting that regaining control requires sustained effort rather than immediate results. Effective strategies include blocking communication signals during operations for enhanced success rates.

Collaboration and Transparency in Operations

• There has been no formal discussion or offer of assistance from El Salvador regarding security matters between the two nations at this point in time.

• The government regularly updates the public on its activities through weekly summaries detailing arrests, recovered vehicles, seized weapons, and other law enforcement actions since taking office—indicating transparency in operations.

Ongoing Law Enforcement Initiatives

• Since assuming office, various initiatives have been launched including raids on penitentiaries leading to significant seizures of illegal items such as drugs and weapons while also recapturing escaped criminals.

• Training programs for new police recruits aim at improving national policing standards; 3,000 new agents are set to graduate soon which will enhance law enforcement capabilities across the country.

Targeted Crime Reduction Strategies

• Specific plans like "Plan Centinela" have been implemented in high-crime areas such as Esquintla with positive outcomes prompting requests from other departments for similar interventions aimed at reducing crime rates further across regions.

• Significant drug seizures have occurred recently including large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl—highlighting aggressive anti-drug trafficking efforts which have garnered international attention due to their scale and potential impact on public health issues abroad like those faced by the United States.

Conclusion on State Actions Against Crime

• While a state of emergency has been declared targeting specific criminal phenomena requiring urgent attention, it does not signify a halt or inactivity prior; rather it is part of an ongoing commitment towards maintaining public safety beyond temporary measures taken during emergencies.

Security Strategies and Crime Prevention in Guatemala

Ongoing Efforts Against Crime

• The government emphasizes a continuous and systematic approach to combat crime across all its forms, aiming to reduce criminal activity and enhance public safety.

• Security strategies are based on "heat maps" of criminal activity, identifying priority areas for law enforcement focus where crime is concentrated.

• It is noted that no country can maintain the same level of security operations everywhere; resources must be allocated according to the severity of issues in specific regions.

Focused Law Enforcement Operations

• Current law enforcement efforts are concentrated in specific areas like Escuintla, which have been identified as hotspots for gang activities.

• Acknowledgment of varying security needs across different neighborhoods highlights the tailored approach necessary for effective policing.

Concerns Regarding Journalist Safety

• Recent threats against journalists, including Juan Víctor Castillo and Juan José Ríos, raise concerns about press safety amid rising violence.

• Questions arise regarding governmental assurances for journalist protection while they report on crime-related issues in Guatemala.

Public Events and Security Measures

• Inquiry into the status of the "caravana del zorro," a large public event, reflects community concern over potential impacts from ongoing security measures or state emergencies.

Government Response to Threats

• The president encourages affected journalists to file formal complaints with the Ministry of Governance to ensure proper investigation into threats received.

• Assurance is given that there are currently no plans to cancel scheduled events like the caravana del zorro unless significant developments occur.