The phenomenon of the Maras, violent Central American gangs that originated in Los Angeles, has become a nightmare in the region. After years of crime and extreme violence, the gangs have lately been subject to repression from governments tired of the insecurity, utilizing methods reminiscent of the counter insurgency wars of the 1980’s.
Closing a wound, El Hoyon prison.
Salvatrucha, taken in a joint Army/ Police gang sweep, Guatemala City.
Graffiti clean up, Ciudad del Sol.
Mareros repent, Palin Guatemala.
Rolando, in his sons former hangout.
Ana and her missing husband Estuardo, who was a member of the Mara 18.
Teenage male, tortured and dumped, Guatemala City.
Anti-gang operations, Tegucigalpa Honduras.
Mara 18 victim of the El Hoyon prison massacre, Escuintla Guatemala.
A woman recognizes a friend, Escuintla morgue.
“Skinny” is tended to by a nurse while handcuffed to his bed.
El Gato recovers from a gunshot wound to the head, hospital Escuintla.
Teresa cries for her son Jorge, a victim of the El Hoyon massacre.
Mourners carry Jorge’s body to it’s grave, Guatemala City.
El Hoyon marero.
all photographs ©2006 by victor j blue