In Guatemala, 11 guards were released, who were held hostage

• Criminals released the guards after demanding the transfer of their leaders.
• The government regained control over the prisons after the riot.
• The injured guard and the hostage received medical assistance.

GUATEMALA CITY — A group of criminals released 11 guards, who were held hostage for most of the time during two riots in Guatemalan. The criminals' demand involved transferring their leaders to other facilities.

Deputy Minister of Security Jose Portillo confirmed the guards' release earlier this morning, but did not provide details. In the meantime, it remains unknown what actions the government took to ensure their safe release. The government regained control over the situation in the prisons.

Riots broke out early on Wednesday in two prisons in Guatemala City, where the guards were captured by members of the notorious gangs Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha. One guard and one hostage, who received treatment during the incident, were evacuated for medical assistance.

Videos that were shared online showed guards with bound hands and feet. In one of the videos, a statement was made that the gangs want the return of their leaders to the prisons, where they were previously held, which previously excluded the Minister of Internal Affairs of Guatemala.

Tags: Crime