Publicado el 27 Octubre 2025
PM Cracks Down on Criminal Networks in Quetzaltenango: Narcotrafficking, Corruption, and Extortion Dismantled
The Public Ministry, through the Prosecutor’s Office for Narcotrafficking Crimes, in coordination with the Metropolitan Regional Prosecutor’s Office and supported by the Specialized Criminal Investigation Division (DEIC) of the National Civil Police, executed 24 coordinated search and seizure operations. As a result, 21 individuals were arrested, in follow-up to investigations targeting criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and corruption.
Operations were conducted across multiple departments, including Guatemala, Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez, Suchitepéquez, Jutiapa, Alta Verapaz, Petén, and Quetzaltenango, including one operation inside the Quetzaltenango Women’s Preventive Detention Center.
Key Cases
- Criminal Network: “Los Narco Guerra 503”
- Composed of Salvadoran nationals, this group was engaged in drug distribution and retail sales in Quetzaltenango.
- Arrested: Verónica P., Lusi S., César D., Yani R., and Matilde G.
- Narcotrafficking, Corruption, and Extortion inside Women’s Detention Center
- A criminal network led by inmates, in coordination with prison staff, was selling and distributing drugs within the facility.
- They also conducted extortion schemes, known as “talacha”, targeting families of newly admitted inmates, demanding Q2,000 to Q6,000 under threats of violence or harassment.
- Arrested: inmates Mayra B., Abigail L., Luisa L., Luis G., José V., and prison staff Queller A., Abraham B., Luis H., and Virgilio B.
- Six inmates were also found in possession of drugs and cell phones: Soledad M., Ana R., Yesica F., Kayron V., Mayra R., and Marta C.
Seized Evidence
- Drugs: Marijuana and cocaine (field-tested)
- Electronic devices: Cell phones
- Vehicles: Two motorcycles and one car
- Other: Closure of a property linked to the criminal network
These operations demonstrate the Public Ministry’s firm commitment to simultaneously targeting organized crime, narcotrafficking, extortion, and corruption, ensuring the rule of law is enforced at all levels.
The Interinstitutional Center Against Narcotrafficking in Guatemala (CICNAG) reaffirms its dedication to carrying out comprehensive operations to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard the security and justice of the Guatemalan population.
Guatemala City, October 26, 2025