Gang Division Seizes Arsenal in Zone 18; Weapons Linked to Plot to Free 'El Lobo'

Guatemala's anti-gang division, Dipanda, confiscated a significant arsenal during an operation on June 12 in the El Limón neighborhood of zone 18, Guatemala City. The raid also led to the arrest of a man authorities identified as a member of the "Solo Raperos" clique, affiliated with the powerful Barrio 18 gang. The seized firearms and ammunition are part of an ongoing investigation by the National Civil Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate and the Public Ministry's Anti-Extortion Prosecutor's Office.

Investigators focused on the coordination of the purchase and transport of these weapons. The operation reportedly targeted individuals like Ángel Haroldo Cu Mejicanos, alias "El Inquieto," and Marlon Alexander Ochoa Mejía, alias "Blocky," who is the brother of Barrio 18 leader Aldo Duppie Ochoa Mejía, known as "El Lobo." Both "El Lobo" and "Blocky" are currently incarcerated at the Renovación 2 prison, formerly the Anexo del Preventivo para Varones in zone 18.

During the El Limón raid, Esvin Orlando Marroquín Flores, 48, alias "Peludo," was apprehended. Police records indicate Marroquín Flores has a history of 10 previous arrests for offenses including robbery, assault, attempted robbery, drug possession, public disturbance, and drug consumption. At the raided residence, police and prosecutors seized four rifles, a sniper rifle, two pistols, a revolver, 15 magazines, and 560 rifle rounds, along with a cell phone and other items pending analysis. The police report noted that the weapons' registration records were either erased or altered, preventing verification of their legal status.

Authorities suggest the confiscated weapons were intended for use in attacks against police officers and prison guards. Furthermore, the arms were allegedly part of a plot to facilitate the escape of "El Lobo." The investigation indicates that "El Inquieto" and "Blocky" orchestrated the acquisition and movement of the weaponry to zone 18. The plan was to subsequently transport the arms to Escuintla, aiming to aid "El Lobo's" release from the Granja Penal Canadá prison, where he is held with other gang leaders.

Law enforcement officials view the seizure as a crucial step in ongoing investigations and a significant contribution to preventing future violence linked to organized criminal groups. The operation underscores the persistent challenges posed by gang activity and the efforts by Guatemalan authorities to disrupt their operations and plans.

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The authorities consider that the seizure strengthens ongoing investigations and contributes to preventing violent incidents related to criminal structures.