Inside El Salvador's Mega Trial: A Nation's Crackdown on Gangs

El Salvador conducts its largest mass trial of 486 alleged gang members under President Nayib Bukele's crackdown on gang violence. The trial, taking place within a mega prison, is part of a broader effort that has seen over 91,000 detainments since April 2022. The proceedings have raised human rights concerns.

Inside a Salvadoran mega prison, over one hundred alleged gang members sit restrained, attending court proceedings on a large screen. These trials, the largest ever under President Nayib Bukele, were witnessed by Reuters as El Salvador continues its crackdown on gang violence.

Since April 2022, Bukele has exercised emergency powers, leading to over 91,000 detainments, mainly targeting suspected MS-13 and Barrio 18 gang members. His administration has publicly promoted the current mass trial procedures, granting media access to the prison as part of their strategy.

The defendants face accusations connected to over 47,000 crimes but are charged primarily with gang affiliation. The closed proceedings have sparked concern over defendants' rights, with critics likening mass trials to mere formalities that undermine fair defense. Despite criticism, Bukele’s tough policies remain popular due to perceived successes in reducing crime rates.