News Analysis

Smugglers Head to the Pacific, Ferrying People From Mexico to the US

A boat that capsized off California’s shores carrying some 30 people who paid more than $15,000 each to be shuttled…

The Unlikely Resistance of a Lone Mining Gang in Venezuela

The escalating violence between security forces and a gang that formerly enjoyed official protection in Venezuela's foremost mining region shows…

Happy Mother's Day from Your Friendly Neighborhood Cartel Boss

In some regions of Mexico, family members who came up empty-handed this Mother's Day were bailed out by the Jalisco…

Bolivia Family Clans Key Cocaine Suppliers to Brazil, Colombia

The extradition of a prominent Bolivian drug trafficker to Brazil has shed rare light on how family clans in the…

Dirty Business - The Smuggling Pipeline Carrying Mercury Across the Amazon

Smuggling networks are feeding illegal mining operations across the Amazon Basin with mercury, despite global efforts to clamp down on…

How Chinese Criminals Secretly Move Millions for Mexico Cartels

While the involvement of Chinese money-laundering rings in handling drug proceeds from Mexico is nothing new, a number of recent…

Showdown Brewing Over Fate of Runaway Mexico Governor

Time appears to be running out for the governor of the US-Mexico border state of Tamaulipas – after lawmakers stripped…

Protests Shatter Already Fragile Image of Colombia’s Security Forces

Colombia’s current political crisis has led to severe clashes between police and protesters in many of the country’s largest cities.

Women Taking Bigger Role in Central America Extortion Schemes

A new report suggests women are increasingly playing an active role in the extortion activities of Central American gangs --…

Earthly Delights: Religious Groups and Money Laundering in Dominican Republic

High-ranking officials in the Dominican Republic are accused of siphoning millions of dollars in state funds through a religious non-profit,…

Pandemic Spending Immunity Deepens El Salvador Corruption Concerns

With a new law granting immunity to El Salvador officials accused of mismanaging coronavirus funds and the resignation of a…

Rage, Rinse, Repeat - The Futile Cycle of Anger at Rio's Police

The stranger burst into the house, staggering and leaving a trail of blood behind him. He ran into the back,…