Honduras security forces dismantle 164 gangs and arrest 598 people

Honduran security forces have conducted extensive operations against organized crime, resulting in hundreds of arrests and the dismantling of numerous criminal groups across the country.

The National Police reported the capture of 598 individuals and the dismantling of 164 criminal gangs across 30 municipalities. These operations targeted organizations involved in large-scale drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms smuggling, vehicle theft, and robberies targeting public transport users. The crackdown spanned various regions, including southern Yoro, northern Atlántida, Choloma, and Baracoa. Authorities noted the involvement of minors within some of these criminal structures.

In a separate tactical deployment in San Pedro Sula, the Military Police of Public Order (PMOP) arrested two alleged members of the Pandilla 18 gang in the Chamelecón sector. The individuals, identified as Nelson Antonio Gómez Licona and Carlos David Portillo Rivera, were apprehended in the San Jorge and Morales neighborhoods. These arrests are part of ongoing efforts to neutralize extortion and assassination networks in the northwestern region. All detainees have been placed at the disposal of the Public Ministry for judicial processing.