Guatemala shuts down: 30-day state of siege to crush maras after coordinated attacks kill police

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo has declared a 30-day nationwide state of siege following a sharp escalation in gang-related violence across the country. The decision comes after members of the Barrio 18 and MS-13 gangs partially seized control of three major prisons, taking dozens of hostages and triggering deadly clashes with security forces. At least seven police officers were killed in retaliatory attacks after authorities regained control of the facilities. In a message to the nation, President Arévalo said the emergency measure is aimed at restoring public order, protecting citizens, and preventing what he described as “terrorist actions” by criminal groups. The state of siege expands police and military powers, though officials insist daily life and state institutions will not be disrupted. The government has also announced three days of national mourning to honour the fallen officers, with flags flown at half-mast across state institutions. This video explains what the state of siege means and why Guatemala is facing one of its most serious security crises in years.