Uruguay to recruit 1,000 new police officers for Montevideo

Montevideo Carlos Negro police recruitment organized crime Uruguay security

Uruguayan Interior Minister Carlos Negro announced that a recruitment process will open in November to add 1,000 new police officers specifically for the Montevideo Police Headquarters. This initiative aims to reinforce street presence in the capital to combat crime and offset a monthly attrition rate of approximately 90 officers.

During a session with the Chamber of Deputies' Security and Coexistence Commission, Negro reported that 1,500 officers have joined the force since the current administration began, with another 1,500 expected to be operational by March 2027. The Minister also highlighted a new cooperation agreement with the U.S. DEA and FBI to combat organized crime.

The announcement follows concerns regarding rising homicide rates during the third quarter of the year, which officials attribute to increased clashes between criminal gangs. Opposition lawmakers also raised questions regarding the presence of the PCC gang within the country's prison system.