Criminal Gangs

Criminal gangs are non-state actors involved in illicit activities, including violence, extortion, and hostage-taking. They operate in various regions globally, often exploiting socio-economic vulnerabilities and weak governance. These gangs are newsworthy due to recent escalations in violence and their impact on state security. In Nigeria, gunmen attacks attributed to criminal gangs have resulted in nearly 200 deaths across Kwara and Katsina states, highlighting a worsening security crisis. Similarly, in Guatemala, the killing of eight police officers and hostage situations in prisons, allegedly orchestrated by gangs, led to the declaration of a 30-day nationwide state of emergency. The gangs' actions demonstrate a significant challenge to law enforcement and state authority, requiring urgent and comprehensive responses to address the underlying causes and mitigate their impact on civilian populations and national stability.