Honduras Implements El Salvador-inspired Tactics to Combat Gangs in Prisons

In an effort to crack down on gangs following a recent massacre at a women's prison, authorities in Honduras conducted a prison sweep similar to the tactics used in neighboring El Salvador. Inmates were forced to sit half-naked in tight rows while their cells were searched for contraband. The military police, who have taken charge of the nation's prisons, found weapons and ammunition during the raids. The crackdown comes after the massacre of 46 female inmates, and authorities are considering the possibility that a recent pool hall shooting, which killed 11 people, may be related to the prison violence. The harsh tactics have raised concerns about human rights abuses but have also gained popularity among residents seeking relief from gang extortion and violence.