Frente a Frente - Lunes 16 de Febrero de 2026

Introduction to the Forum

Overview of the Program

• The program is introduced as a leading forum for television in Honduras, hosted by Renato Alvarez.

Discussion with National Police Officials

Meeting with Ministers

• The host greets various ministers, including those from the national police, indicating a return to discussions post-pandemic.

Background of Police Operations

• A guest discusses their previous role as Director of Operations within the national police and reflects on past responsibilities.

Contextualizing Current Leadership

New Secretary's Role

• The new secretary expresses gratitude for being part of the discussion and acknowledges historical ties between Honduras and El Salvador while addressing current tensions.

Political Relations Between Honduras and El Salvador

Critique of Najib Bukele's Attitude

• There is surprise expressed regarding President Bukele's lack of recognition towards the Honduran president, highlighting political dynamics in Central America.

Historical Context

• The speaker notes that despite political differences (e.g., party affiliations), there has traditionally been respect among Central American leaders during elections.

Addressing Security Challenges

Crisis Management Experience

• Rommel Armando Martínez shares insights on handling crises faced by law enforcement, emphasizing readiness to tackle challenges ahead.

Commitment to Public Safety

• General Mecil Marín Aguilar Amaya discusses his commitment to enhancing security through effective strategies aligned with government plans.

Introducing New Leadership in National Police

New Director General's Vision

• Rigoberto Oseguera introduces himself as the new director general of the national police, expressing dedication to community safety initiatives.

Key Question on Governance and Crime

Central Inquiry Raised

• A pivotal question is posed about who truly holds power in Honduras—state authorities or organized crime—inviting public engagement via social media platforms.

Reflection on Law Enforcement Effectiveness

• The discussion acknowledges ongoing efforts by law enforcement but emphasizes a desire for greater effectiveness beyond current capabilities.

Honduras Security Debate: Insights from the Minister

Overview of the Controversy

• The speaker emphasizes the need for cleaning up corruption within the police in Honduras, setting the stage for discussing security issues.

• The Minister of Security's statement highlights a commitment to human rights and a tailored approach to security rather than copying external models, which sparked controversy.

Reactions and Comparisons

• The Minister acknowledges that while the Salvadoran model is interesting, it cannot be directly replicated due to different institutional and social contexts in Honduras.

• President Bukele defends his hardline approach against gangs in El Salvador, arguing that prioritizing criminals' human rights undermines crime-fighting efforts.

Human Rights vs. Security

• Bukele warns that an excessive focus on human rights could lead to increased violence, suggesting that Honduras must adopt a more aggressive stance on security.

• The speaker reflects on historical violations of human rights in Honduras, indicating a heightened sensitivity towards these issues compared to other nations.

Contextual Factors Influencing Strategy

• The Minister clarifies that their intention was not to critique existing models but to recognize unique national circumstances affecting security strategies.

• He points out geographical challenges such as extensive coastlines facilitating drug trafficking and creating criminal structures along those areas.

Unique Challenges Faced by Honduras

• The discussion includes how certain regions lack state presence due to geographical features, leading to increased insecurity and drug-related activities.

• Acknowledges ongoing social issues related to land ownership and political problems as factors complicating security efforts in Honduras.

Strategic Development for Security

• Emphasizes the necessity for coordinated regional strategies against organized crime while recognizing each country's unique challenges.

• Highlights the importance of developing tailored strategies based on specific local realities rather than adopting one-size-fits-all solutions.

Understanding the Need for a Tailored Approach to Crime in Honduras

The Importance of Contextual Solutions

• The speaker emphasizes the need for a personalized model to address crime, acknowledging that issues vary significantly across regions like Colón and Tegucigalpa.

• It is highlighted that different criminogenic factors exist within various areas, necessitating unique approaches rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Challenges in Government Coordination

• A lack of effective inter-institutional coordination has historically hindered efforts to combat crime, indicating a need for improved collaboration among government entities.

• Criticism arises regarding police announcements of success against extortion, which often lead to judicial processes that may not yield effective results due to recent legal changes.

Legal System Limitations

• The new penal code may not have anticipated the escalation of crime, leading to situations where offenders can easily accept guilt through expedited procedures without facing substantial consequences.

• There is an acknowledgment of political polarization affecting public perception and response to crime strategies, complicating the implementation of effective policies.

The Role of Human Rights in Security Strategies

Balancing Security and Human Rights

• The speaker argues for the necessity of respecting human rights while designing security strategies, especially in light of criticisms directed at El Salvador's approach under President Bukele.

• Historical context is provided regarding past human rights violations during periods such as the Cold War, suggesting that current law enforcement may possess better theoretical knowledge about human rights compared to their counterparts in El Salvador.

Current Realities and Responsibilities

• Despite existing challenges within law enforcement agencies regarding human rights adherence, there is a commitment from Honduran authorities to uphold both national laws and international conventions on human rights.

• The speaker acknowledges past cases where police officers faced legal repercussions for violating human rights, reinforcing the importance of accountability within law enforcement practices.

State of Exception and Human Rights in Honduras

The Nature of the State of Exception

• The state of exception is intended to be a temporary measure that limits constitutional rights, allowing authorities greater freedom without judicial oversight.

• Concerns arise regarding potential abuses by law enforcement during this period, leading to the decision to lift the state of exception due to reported violations.

Political Context and Electoral Implications

• The speaker reflects on President Bukele's reaction against maintaining the state of exception, especially during election periods when citizens require full freedoms.

• There are challenges in applying El Salvador's security model in Honduras due to differing institutional and political conditions.

Human Rights Discourse

• Despite claims of respecting human rights, there are instances where police actions contradict this principle, with many officers facing legal consequences for abuses.

• Public sentiment often leans towards prioritizing law enforcement over human rights for criminals, reflecting a widespread belief that offenders do not deserve protections.

Societal Attitudes Towards Criminality

• Many Hondurans believe that criminals should not be afforded human rights; this mindset has been reinforced by political rhetoric.

• The country faces significant human rights violations while grappling with how to address criminal behavior without disregarding fundamental rights.

Security Model Development

• Acknowledgment of national issues necessitates creating a new security model that balances law enforcement with respect for legal frameworks.

• Emphasis on being firm against gangs while adhering to legal obligations highlights the complexity of enforcing laws within a democratic context.

Challenges in Upholding Democracy

• The evolution of criminal structures poses challenges; strong measures must be taken against those who disrupt public order without infringing on democratic principles.

• Citizens' protests can lead to significant disruptions; however, it is crucial not to allow small groups to halt national progress or violate others' rights.

Rights of Criminal Offenders

• A key question arises about whether incarcerated individuals retain their human rights despite their status as offenders; all humans possess inherent rights simply by being human.

Conclusion and Future Considerations

• As discussions continue among police leadership regarding human rights compliance, it remains essential for law enforcement agencies to navigate these complex debates responsibly.

Security Policies and Human Rights in Honduras

Current Security Policy Debate

• The discussion revolves around the weakening of security policies against criminals and criminal networks, prompting a call for a hybrid model that combines effective strategies with human rights considerations.

• Two institutional levels are represented: the political level by the Secretary of State and two subsecretaries, and the operational level by Commissioner Rigoberto Segramás, highlighting a connection between policy-making and law enforcement.

• The security strategy is shaped by directives from the presidency, emphasizing collaboration between political leaders and operational police forces to ensure effective implementation.

Key Principles of Law Enforcement

• A primary goal is to align political strategies with operational actions within the National Police, focusing on good public service conduct as essential for institutional integrity.

• Emphasizes adherence to legality in police-citizen interactions, stressing that law enforcement must maintain rigorous standards while respecting citizens' rights.

Addressing Crime Effectively

• The approach includes strict application of laws related to traffic safety as an example; if crime rates rise in specific areas, law enforcement must respond decisively without overstepping legal boundaries.

• Highlights the need for focused efforts against organized crime while ensuring compliance with existing legal frameworks; emphasizes that current laws are sufficient but require diligent enforcement.

Balancing Human Rights with Law Enforcement

• Asserts that respecting human rights does not equate to leniency towards criminals; strong policing is necessary while upholding legal obligations towards all individuals.

• Critiques politicians who undermine human rights protections; advocates for a model rooted in respect for human dignity even when confronting criminal elements.

Conclusion and Future Directions

• Acknowledges potential backlash from discussing human rights in relation to crime control; stresses that maintaining a balance between enforcing laws and protecting rights is crucial for state legitimacy.

• Prepares to transition into further discussions involving other key officials regarding institutional matters within law enforcement.

Who Really Rules Honduras: The State or Organized Crime?

Public Sentiment on Crime and Governance

• The discussion opens with an invitation for public participation regarding the influence of organized crime in Honduras, questioning whether the state or criminal organizations hold true power.

• A participant expresses frustration, stating that human rights are often defended more for criminals than for citizens, comparing the situation to dealing with pests in a home.

• There is a call for military involvement alongside police forces to combat crime effectively, highlighting a belief that current law enforcement is complicit with criminals.

• Another message suggests modifying the constitution to strip citizenship from those who take lives, advocating for harsher penalties against violent offenders.

• The popularity of Nayib Bukele's security policies in El Salvador is noted, emphasizing a desire among Hondurans for similar strong measures against crime.

Critique of Political Parties and Criminal Organizations

• A user claims that the National Party is essentially a criminal organization controlling the country, suggesting that they exploit vulnerable populations without accountability.

• The sentiment reflects widespread belief that criminals do not respect victims' rights and calls into question the legitimacy of human rights protections for offenders.

Government Response and Strategy

• A government official acknowledges public concerns about police actions during states of emergency but emphasizes ongoing efforts to improve coordination between institutions to address these issues effectively.

• The official discusses past abuses by police during emergencies and recognizes the need for stronger inter-institutional collaboration to restore public trust.

• They outline their strategy focusing on local governance and community engagement as essential components in addressing security challenges across municipalities.

Building Trust Through Community Engagement

• Emphasis is placed on creating partnerships between state institutions at all levels to ensure effective implementation of security plans tailored to local needs.

• An example illustrates how local leaders feel disconnected from assigned police officers, indicating a need for better integration and communication within communities.

This structured approach captures key discussions around governance, crime control strategies, and public sentiment in Honduras while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Police Strategy and Human Rights in Honduras

The Role of Police in Combating Crime

• The speaker emphasizes the need for a strong police response against criminal networks, influenced by public sentiment advocating for a Salvadoran model.

• There is a call for police to act decisively against criminals while respecting legal frameworks and human rights, highlighting the necessity of self-defense in dangerous situations.

• The national police operates within a strategic framework that includes tactical processes and adherence to human rights, stressing the importance of rigorous law enforcement.

Theoretical Framework on Security

• Discussion on the Copenhagen School's theory of securitization and desecuritization, indicating that effective policing should aim to reduce security threats over time.

• Emphasis on the importance of experienced police personnel who understand how to effectively target crime while maintaining respect for human rights.

Balancing Law Enforcement with Human Rights

• Acknowledgment of existing problems within law enforcement but reiteration that combating crime must not infringe upon individual rights; there is an obligation to develop a tailored approach to policing in Honduras.

• Clarification that while bravery is essential in policing, it should not lead to abusive practices; citizens desire courageous yet respectful law enforcement.

Historical Context and Future Considerations

• Reflection on past abuses when police or military forces were given unchecked power; concerns about sustainability of aggressive policing models like those seen in El Salvador.

• Reaffirmation that effective governance requires strength without compromising respect for laws and human rights; this balance is crucial for upholding the rule of law.

Implementation Strategies

• Introduction of political control over citizen security management, emphasizing accountability in executing public safety policies.

• Proposal for a focused territorial intervention model based on data-driven strategies to allocate resources efficiently where crime rates are highest.

• Importance placed on strengthening information systems within police operations to better identify problem areas and tailor responses accordingly.

The Golden Peak: A Rising Star in Coffee Culture

Overview of The Golden Peak's Achievements

• The Golden Peak secured the 70th position in an international coffee ranking, showcasing its growing reputation in the coffee industry.

• Emphasis on high-quality coffee production that highlights local varieties and flavors, with a commitment to excellence in tasting experiences.

Expansion and Locations

• The Golden Peak operates three cafes nationwide, with locations in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa.

• New café location established at Villa Palmiro in Tegucigalpa, alongside existing spots on Avenida de los Próceres and Plaza Mazdeval in San Pedro Sula.

Evaluation Criteria for Best Cafés

• Recognition by Reward Best Coffee Shops is based on a structured evaluation process involving expert panels including baristas, roasters, and journalists.

• Cafés are assessed on multiple criteria such as coffee quality, preparation techniques, customer service, innovation, sustainability, and overall experience.

Significance of Ranking

• Being listed among the top 100 cafés provides international recognition and enhances brand visibility across global markets.

Addressing Security Challenges in Honduras

Current Security Landscape

• Presentation of a map highlighting the 30 municipalities with the highest homicide rates as a key indicator of violence levels.

Data Analysis for Strategic Resource Allocation

• Discussion on analyzing homicide data not just at municipal levels but also focusing on micro-territorial areas where violence is concentrated.

Comparative Homicide Rates

• Global reference points indicate an average homicide rate of 8 per 100k inhabitants; Latin America averages around 20 per 100k. Honduras' projected rate for 2025 is approximately 23.5 per 100k.

Focused Intervention Areas

• Identification of critical areas requiring resource allocation includes District Central and San Pedro Sur due to their significant violence issues.

Honduras' Strategy to Reduce Crime Rates

Key Objectives and Focus Areas

• The administration aims to lower Honduras' crime rates below the average of Latin America, acknowledging the severity of issues like traffic accidents, extortion, and femicides.

• Four main indicators will guide their actions: traffic accidents, extortion-related victimization, femicides, and citizen trust in institutions.

Targeted Interventions

• The strategy involves focused territorial interventions in specific municipalities rather than a nationwide state of emergency due to localized problems.

• Data from 2025 indicates high homicide rates in certain areas; for example, Juti Calpa has 41 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. This data serves as a baseline for strategic planning.

Crime Statistics Overview

• Notable statistics include Nueva Arcadia with 79 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants and Trujillo with over 50 homicides per the same population metric. These figures highlight critical areas needing intervention.

• Municipalities like Santa Rita Copán (64) and Jutiapa Atlántida (59) also show alarming homicide rates that necessitate immediate attention.

Underlying Causes of Violence

• Analysis reveals that extortion and various criminal economies contribute significantly to homicide rates; remnants of past drug trafficking organizations still influence current crime dynamics.

• The strategy emphasizes evidence-based territorial focus rather than responding solely to social or political pressures when allocating resources for policing efforts.

Community Engagement and Law Enforcement Preparedness

• Local mayors express the need for police presence; however, prioritization is essential based on crime data indicating where intervention is most needed. For instance, Zulaco shows concerning trends with two competing criminal groups emerging despite its traditionally peaceful reputation.

• Law enforcement officials are being trained extensively in criminology and related fields to better understand global contexts while addressing local challenges effectively. This preparation aims at enhancing community safety through informed strategies moving forward.

Geopolitical Insights and Police Training in Honduras

Global Perspective on Crime and Security

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in addressing crime, highlighting the interconnectedness of issues like criminality in the Arctic and its impact on Honduras.

• There is a focus on the dedication of police officials who have pursued education and training, often at personal sacrifice, to enhance their capabilities in combating crime.

• The speaker expresses pride in local law enforcement's commitment to professional development, indicating that many officers are lawyers or criminologists aiming for structured approaches to crime prevention.

Geopolitical Dimensions

• Discussion revolves around the geopolitical model influenced by El Salvador's security strategies under President Bukele, emphasizing human rights as a core principle.

• The speaker outlines three dimensions of geopolitics: particular interests, space, and conflict. These elements drive discussions about power dynamics within regions.

• Authority figures are held responsible for managing power effectively within these geopolitical frameworks.

Focused Crime Reduction Strategies

• The speaker commends police officers' bravery while noting that resources will be concentrated on municipalities with high homicide rates to optimize state efforts against crime.

• Acknowledgment is given to past administrations regarding femicides; integrating this issue into police strategy reflects an evolving approach to gender-based violence.

Indicators of Police Impact

• Key indicators for assessing police effectiveness include reducing violent deaths among women and improving traffic accident statistics as part of broader safety measures.

• Emphasis is placed on citizen trust in authorities as a critical metric for evaluating police performance and community relations.

Resource Optimization in Policing

• The necessity for surgical interventions targeting root causes of violence is discussed; prioritization based on severity (e.g., domestic violence vs. noise complaints) illustrates strategic resource allocation.

Domestic Violence and Femicide: Addressing the Issues

The Urgency of Addressing Domestic Violence

• The speaker emphasizes the need to prioritize addressing domestic violence over merely notifying neighbors about noise disturbances, highlighting the importance of immediate action against ongoing crimes.

• Acknowledges past debates regarding femicide, pointing out weaknesses in legal requirements that fail to prevent these crimes effectively when it comes to prosecuting offenders.

Role of Authorities in Domestic Violence Cases

• Questions the role of police in handling domestic violence cases, stressing their critical involvement in protecting vulnerable groups such as women.

• Stresses the necessity for trained personnel to gather sufficient evidence for effective judicial processes, particularly concerning violent deaths of women.

Strengthening Legal Framework and Institutional Cooperation

• Calls for enhanced collaboration between law enforcement and public ministries to address femicides more effectively, noting that a strong connection with the judiciary is essential.

• Expresses hope that institutional cooperation will lead to a tangible reduction in femicides, while cautioning against complacency due to previous optimism fading over time.

Traffic Accidents and Public Safety Concerns

• Discusses traffic accidents as another serious issue, indicating a rise in fatalities among motorcyclists despite an overall decrease in homicides since January 26.

• Highlights a troubling increase in road fatalities compared to previous years, suggesting a need for focused attention on improving road safety measures.

Cultural Attitudes Towards Law Enforcement

• Points out cultural challenges where citizens expect leniency from law enforcement regarding traffic violations, complicating efforts for strict adherence to laws.

• Emphasizes that respecting laws should not be seen as weakness but rather as a commitment to uphold rights and ensure accountability among both citizens and police officers.

Ensuring Ethical Conduct Among Law Enforcement

• Advocates for ethical behavior within law enforcement agencies, ensuring that officers who violate principles face consequences similar to those imposed on civilians committing infractions.

• Reiterates support for officers acting correctly while promising accountability for misconduct within the ranks of law enforcement.

Strategies for Improving Licensing Access

• Mentions ongoing efforts to improve access to motorcycle licenses through mobile units aimed at reaching underserved communities.

Addressing Traffic Safety and Extortion Challenges

Traffic Safety Initiatives

• The discussion emphasizes the need for a prevention program at the municipal level to raise awareness about speed limits and irresponsible driving behaviors, particularly concerning motorcyclists.

• Acknowledgment of the challenges faced by motorcyclists, who often disregard traffic laws due to socioeconomic factors; this highlights the necessity for regulation while considering their role as essential transporters in society.

• The speaker notes that many individuals rely on motorcycles for daily activities, such as transporting children or goods, indicating a need for balanced regulations that ensure safety without hindering access.

• There is an urgent call to prioritize addressing not only motorcycle-related issues but also broader concerns involving pedestrian safety and conflicts between different vehicle types.

Tackling Extortion Issues

• Commissioner Oseguera discusses strategies to combat extortion, emphasizing the importance of utilizing available police resources effectively while integrating technology into law enforcement practices.

• The speaker reflects on his experience founding an anti-extortion unit and stresses the complexity of extortion as a crime driven by fear among victims, necessitating innovative approaches to law enforcement.

• A commitment is made to develop strategies aimed at eradicating extortion from communities, highlighting a sense of urgency given ongoing challenges in addressing this issue.

Legal Reforms Needed

• Discussion around necessary legal reforms indicates that current laws regarding extortion are inadequate; there is a proposal for changes that would allow investigations without requiring formal victim complaints initially.

• The speaker points out procedural inefficiencies where victims face significant stress during lengthy judicial processes; reforming these procedures could encourage more victims to come forward with their cases.

Enhancing Law Enforcement Effectiveness

• Emphasis on improving legal frameworks so that initial victim statements can be used as anticipatory evidence in court proceedings, reducing delays and potential intimidation faced by victims during trials.

• Highlighting the need for proactive measures within law enforcement agencies to respond swiftly based on information received through emergency lines or other channels.

Conclusion: Need for Comprehensive Solutions

• Acknowledgment that existing police efforts may be hindered by outdated laws; thus, there’s a pressing need for comprehensive reforms across various sectors involved in combating crime effectively.

• Reference made to specific incidents illustrating ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring public safety amidst rising violence and accidents.

Who Really Holds Power in Honduras?

Discussion on Resource Allocation and Vehicle Safety

• The need for increased resources and patrols on highways is emphasized, highlighting the importance of safety measures for vehicles used by police.

• Concerns are raised about the lack of safety mechanisms in imported used vehicles, which could prevent accidents if they met factory safety standards.

• A legal framework is suggested to control the root causes of crime, indicating a proactive approach from law enforcement.

Human Rights vs. Public Safety Debate

• A controversial discussion arises regarding human rights organizations that prioritize the rights of criminals over victims, questioning who defends those affected by crime.

• Comments from viewers reflect frustration with the focus on human rights for offenders while daily violence continues to plague Hondurans.

State Control and Crime Management

• Panelists assert that despite challenges, the state maintains control over crime; intervention leads to a decrease in criminal activity.

• Officials acknowledge limited resources but reaffirm their commitment to public safety and community engagement as essential components of their strategy.

Criticism from Regional Leaders

• Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele criticizes Honduras' security minister for allegedly prioritizing criminals' rights, suggesting this approach endangers lives.

• The minister defends his strategy as effective, contrasting it with Bukele's more aggressive stance against gangs in El Salvador that reportedly reduced homicide rates significantly.

Law Enforcement Challenges and Strategies

• Recent confrontations between police and criminals highlight ongoing violence; officials stress the need for a strong police presence without compromising human rights protections.

• The minister emphasizes that respecting human rights does not equate to leniency towards crime but acknowledges past abuses by law enforcement as a critical concern moving forward.