What charges are the MS-13 suspects facing in El Salvador?

The 486 MS-13 suspects are charged with crimes including murder, femicide, disappearances, and rebellion.

When was the state of emergency implemented in El Salvador?

A controversial state of emergency has been in place in El Salvador since March 2022.

What is MS-13's status?

MS-13 is a transnational gang that was designated as a terrorist organization by the US.

Home / Crime and Justice / MS-13 Terror Suspects Face Trial

MS-13 Terror Suspects Face Trial

21 Apr

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Summary

Hundreds face trial for crimes including femicide and disappearances.
MS-13, a terrorist organization, is accused of causing fear and grief.
A state of emergency allows expanded arrest powers since March 2022.

El Salvador's attorney general's office is prosecuting 486 suspects linked to the transnational gang MS-13, designated a terrorist organization by the US. The charges include murder, femicide, disappearances, and rebellion aimed at establishing a parallel state, with prosecutors confident of securing maximum penalties.

For years, MS-13 has operated systematically, instilling fear and significantly impacting El Salvador's development. Authorities have detained 413 suspects, with arrest warrants issued for 73 others. This crackdown occurs under a controversial state of emergency, active since March 2022, which has expanded arrest powers and suspended certain constitutional rights.