They left gangs and found God. But they weren’t spared in El Salvador’s crackdown
1 year, 8 months ago

They left gangs and found God. But they weren’t spared in El Salvador’s crackdown

LA Times  

The MS-13 and Barrio 18 gangs fought on the street outside Eben-ezer Baptist Church for years. Rumors spread that he was “a pastor for gang members.” Worshipers pray at Eben-ezer Baptist Church in El Salvador during a recent Tuesday evening service. One large wall decoration features Bukele, a clock and the words: “The president that’s making history.” “It’s like a dream, it’s the best thing that has happened,” shopkeeper Ceci Martínez said of Bukele’s gang crackdown. “We’re not locked in, the streets are calm, people go for walks, tourists visit us.” Souvenirs depicting President Nayib Bukele are sold at a market in San Salvador’s historic center. In May, police showed up at Guzmán’s church asking for “Nelson.” Sanchez left El Salvador that month.

History of this topic

MS-13 leader, one of FBI’s most wanted fugitives, arrested at California-Mexico border
9 months ago
El Salvador’s president jailed 1% of the population. Their children are paying the price
10 months ago
The president jailed 1 per cent of El Salvador''s population. Their children are paying the consequences
10 months, 2 weeks ago
The president seized 1% of El Salvador's population. Their children pay the consequences
10 months, 2 weeks ago
Pastors find a role ministering to young men swept up in El Salvador's crackdown on gangs
1 year, 6 months ago
El Salvador ex-president sentenced to 14 years over gang talks
1 year, 6 months ago
MS-13 gang members in Central America sanctioned by US
1 year, 10 months ago
In El Salvador, a tough anti-gang crackdown proves popular
1 year, 11 months ago
Prison deaths mount in El Salvador’s gang crackdown
2 years, 2 months ago
In El Salvador, army surrounds town to root out gang
2 years, 2 months ago
Can gang warfare in El Salvador be defeated?
2 years, 7 months ago
Suspected MS-13 leader’s capture offers window into gang’s structure
4 years, 4 months ago

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