In an unprecedented legal move reflecting El Salvador’s aggressive stance against organized crime, the nation’s judiciary has sentenced leaders and members of the notorious MS-13 gang to a combined prison term exceeding 1300 years. This landmark decision follows their conviction on hundreds of counts of heinous crimes.
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, originated in Los Angeles during the 1980s. Founded by Salvadoran immigrants fleeing civil war, the gang initially aimed to protect its members from other criminal groups. However, it quickly evolved into a transnational criminal organization. Former U.S. President Donald Trump once described the gang as ruthless, transforming peaceful neighborhoods into “killing fields.”
The Salvadoran government accuses MS-13 and its rival, Barrio 18, of being responsible for the deaths of approximately 200,000 people over three decades. Before the launch of a major security crackdown, these gangs reportedly controlled 80% of El Salvador’s territory.
Since 2022, authorities have arrested over 90,000 suspected gang members as part of a comprehensive anti-gang campaign. Approximately 8,000 individuals have been released after being exonerated. Recently, 248 gang members received particularly harsh sentences for their involvement in 43 homicides and 42 cases of forced disappearance.
The length of the sentences has drawn considerable attention. Gang leader Marvin Hernandez received a 1335-year sentence, while Fredy Edgard received 958 years, Miguel Guzman 880 years, and Kelvin Rivas 739 years. These sentences effectively guarantee that these individuals will remain incarcerated for the remainder of their lives. The severity of the sentences has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the government’s firm hand and others questioning the practicality of such lengthy prison terms.
DZWatch is closely following the developments in El Salvador and will continue to provide updates on this ongoing battle against organized crime.
