Guatemala deploys 2,000 troops after deadly attack

Soldiers stand in formation during a temporary state of siege, approved by the Guatemalan Congress following the death of several soldiers last week, in the community of Semuy II, Izabal province, Guatemala Sept. 9, 2019. REUTERS
Soldiers stand in formation during a temporary state of siege, approved by the Guatemalan Congress following the death of several soldiers last week, in the community of Semuy II, Izabal province, Guatemala Sept. 9, 2019. REUTERS

IZABAL – Hundreds of Guatemalan soldiers were deployed on Monday to an area near the border with Honduras and Mexico, home to long-standing social conflicts, in a bid to improve security after three soldiers were gunned down by suspected drug runners.

Defense Minister Luis Miguel Ralda told reporters that 2,000 soldiers had been sent as part of the mission following a declaration of emergency powers granted by the Congress two days ago.

“We expect them to bring calm, security and peace to the people of this region,” he said, acknowledging that the area was marked by lawlessness due to extortion and other drug-related crime. (Reuters)

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