Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Guatemalan inmates riot at three prisons
In Guatemala, inmates at three prisons started a riot and took 46 people hostage, including guards and a psychologist.
The government says the riot was organized by the Barrio 18 gang, which wants its leader moved to a different prison for better treatment.
The interior minister said he won't make any deals with the gang.
Security forces are in control around the prisons, and no one has been hurt yet.
This is a bigger hostage situation than usual in Guatemala.
Inmates at three prisons in Guatemala rioted and took 46 people hostage, mostly guards and a psychologist.
The riot was allegedly organized by the Barrio 18 gang to pressure for the transfer of their leader.
Interior Minister Marco Antonio Villeda stated he is willing to talk with the inmates but will not accede to their demands.
Security forces, including the army, are maintaining control and working to restore order.
This hostage situation is notably larger than previous incidents in Guatemala.
- Who
- Inmates at three prisons in Guatemala, allegedly organized by the Barrio 18 gang
- What
- Riot and hostage-taking involving 46 people, mostly guards and a psychologist
- When
- January 17, 2024
- Where
- Three prisons in Guatemala
- Why
- To pressure for the transfer of the gang's leader to another facility for better conditions and special treatment
- Location
- Guatemala
- Date
- January 17, 2024
- Number of Hostages
- 46
- Organized By
- Barrio 18 gang
- Hostages
- Mostly guards and a psychologist
- Response
- Security forces maintaining perimeter control
- Injuries
- None reported among hostages
Sources
Guatemalan inmates riot at three prisons, taking 46 people hostage
Guatemalan inmates take over prisons, holding 46 people hostage
Inmates in 3 Guatemalan prisons hold dozens of guards hostage
Cops attacked in Guatemala after police take back prison, gang leader
Gang violence in Guatemala kills 7 police officers after inmates take over prisons
