Guatemala President declares state of emergency as riots breaks out at three prisons

The Guatemala’s president Bernardo Arevalo has declared a state of emergency following the violence at three prisons.Riots broke out at three prisons in Guatemala, where inmates took at least 46 people hostage,according to reports.

The unrest was reportedly orchestrated by the Barrio 18 gang, which was seeking prison transfers and special treatment for jailed gang leaders.

No hostages have been reported injured.

The Interior Ministry said authorities have secured the affected facilities and activated emergency protocols, reiterating that the government will not negotiate with organized crime.

Meanwhile,Guatemala's Ministry of Education announced suspension of classes starting Jan. 19 at private, cooperative and municipal educational institutions nationwide as a preventive security measure.

The President issued a 30-day order of restriction of civil liberties and allows security officers to arrest or question individuals without prior court approval.

The emergency order takes immediate effect, although it still needs to be approved by Guatemala’s legislature.

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