News Analysis

Uruguay's Gang Wars Worsen in Montevideo Neighborhoods

Villa Española and Peñarol in Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, have become the center of fighting between local drug trafficking gangs.

From Deception to Demand: US Fentanyl Users Now Want Fentanyl

Many American users, perhaps the majority, now realize when they’re consuming illicit fentanyl. This has changed the way they look…

Could Venezuelan Military Finally Bring Bolívar's Illegal Gold Miners to Heel?

The Venezuelan government has placed and rogue mining gangs in its crosshairs, as the military is deployed in Bolívar.

From Negotiations to Sanctions, a Busy Time for Crime in Haiti

Sanctions are turning the screw on Haiti's major gangs and leaders, who fuel constant violence in the country.

Fentanyl Has Become a Hidden Killer in Mexico

The threat of fentanyl in Mexico is growing, yet a lack of comprehensive data collection means the problem is unseen…

Why Are Murders Spreading Across Argentina's Most Violent City?

Argentina’s most violent city, Rosario, looks set to beat its homicide record set one decade ago. But the city’s criminal…

Telegram Becoming Drug Dealing Marketplace of Choice in Argentina

In Argentina, Telegram is becoming the go-to method for finding drugs on the street level as dealers and consumers seek…

Transfers of Gang Leaders Focus Points for Ecuador’s Prison Violence

The transfers of top gang leaders from prison to prison in Ecuador often precede outbreaks of horrifying violence.

Facing Death and Dismissal, Mexico's Mothers Keep Searching

Mothers searching for their disappeared loved ones in Mexico face increasing threats and killings.

Countdown Begins to Trial of Mexico's Former Security Minister

The trial of Genaro García Luna, Mexico's public security minister during the presidency of Felipe Calderón, is fast approaching.

Methamphetamine Production in Mexico Is Toxic for the Environment

In Sinaloa, Mexico, chemicals used for methamphetamine production are damaging the environment and, it appears, the health of locals.

How Illegal Logging Became a National Security Crisis in Chile

Political conflict, institutional weakness, and ineffective legislation have helped wood theft and illegal logging proliferate in Chile.