News Analysis

After US Hearing on Fentanyl, Is It Time to Retire the Word ‘Cartel’?

The misuse of the term "cartel" by US lawmakers at a recent hearing on fentanyl prompts us to ask: should…

Bolivia Passenger Buses Carry Contraband Rather Than People

Passenger buses are the latest means of smuggling contraband goods in Bolivia, where the impact of COVID-19 has seen smuggling…

Ecuador's 'Most Wanted' Criminal Captured in Colombia

Wilder Emilio Sánchez Farfán, alias “Gato Farfán” helped develop Ecuador's credentials as a drug trafficking hub.

Doubts Remain Over Venezuela’s Efforts to Stop Illegal Mining

Venezuela has acted against illegal miners. But with close ties between the state and these mining groups, are efforts genuine?…

Venezuela's Organized Crime Top 10 for 2023

InSight Crime has developed its own methodology to rank Venezuela's organized crime groups. Here, we present the strongest.

How a Priest in Mexico Resists the CJNG’s Incursions

In Mexico's hotly contested Tierra Caliente region, one priest is caught between the CJNG and a smattering of violent criminal…

Prescription Pills Laced With Meth, Fentanyl Sold in Northern Mexico Pharmacies: Report

Prescription drugs containing fentanyl and methamphetamine are being sold in northern Mexico, putting unknowing customers at extreme risk.

Brazil Case Illustrates Struggle With Corrupt Police

Police in Ceará, Brazil, have been detained for alleged connections to organized crime in alarming numbers.

All of Colombia's Marijuana Is 'Creepy,' Until It Isn't

Seizures of creepy marijuana from Colombia are popping around Latin America. But is the situation as creepy as it looks?…

Guatemala Sees Record Coca, But No Cocaine

Guatemala is dealing with the rapid expansion of coca leaf plantations, but there is little evidence the country is becoming…

Is Nayib Bukele's 'Iron Fist' in El Salvador Working?

In El Salvador, crackdowns have led to rapid improvements in security. But there is real doubt about whether gangs are…

InSight Crime's 2022 Homicide Round-Up

InSight Crime's 2022 Homicide Round-Up covers more countries than ever before, with a major expansion into nations of the Caribbean.