21.04.2026 14:20
A mass trial has begun in El Salvador for approximately 500 people accused of being linked to the MS-13 gang. While the defendants are held responsible for thousands of murders and tens of thousands of crimes, most of the hearings are conducted via video link from prisons. The government describes the gang as a "parallel structure," while human rights organizations express concerns about fair trial standards.
One of the largest judicial processes against gang crimes in El Salvador has begun. Approximately 500 people, including high-profile individuals, are being tried collectively on charges of being connected to one of the country's bloodiest criminal organizations, MS-13.
Authorities have stated that the defendants in the case are held responsible for tens of thousands of crimes committed between 2012 and 2022. These crimes include thousands of murders, robberies, drug trafficking, and organized crime activities.
MORE THAN 47,000 CRIMES, THOUSANDS OF MURDER ALLEGATIONS
According to the prosecution, the defendants are linked to more than 47,000 crimes, the majority of which are murders. Authorities claim that in just one weekend in 2022, gang leaders ordered the killing of more than 80 people.
MAJORITY OF DEFENDANTS CONNECTED FROM PRISON
The majority of the defendants attending the hearing are connecting via video conference from the country's high-security prisons. Authorities indicate that more than 90,000 suspects have been detained in recent years through operations.
GOVERNMENT: THEY HAVE ESTABLISHED A PARALLEL STATE
Authorities argue that MS-13 has controlled a large part of the country for years and has effectively created a "parallel structure." It is stated that the gang exerts pressure on society through threats, violence, and illegal activities.
HUMAN RIGHTS DEBATE IS ALSO ON THE AGENDA
On the other hand, some human rights organizations warn that the principle of fair trial may be compromised in such large-scale collective cases. Arrests and prison conditions continue to spark debate in the international community.
THE TRIAL IS EXPECTED TO LAST FOR MONTHS
The judicial process, regarded as one of the largest cases in El Salvador's history, is expected to last for months.