Gunfight in Argentina: Gangs and police exchange fire with automatic weapons

A significant exchange of gunfire involving two gangs and police occurred in San Martín, Argentina, highlighting a worrying escalation in the firepower of local criminal organizations. The confrontation, which took place early Friday morning, saw the use of weapons that suggest a growing capacity for automatic fire, a concern for public security officials.

During subsequent raids, authorities discovered two artisanal "tumbera" machine guns, which are homemade automatic weapons. The presence of these weapons indicates the involvement of skilled individuals capable of modifying firearms for automatic firing. Additionally, investigators found three kits designed to enhance semi-automatic pistols for more precise, two-handed firing, and a circular magazine capable of holding 50 rounds, significantly exceeding standard capacity.

This incident is particularly concerning given the comparison with other regional countries, where drug gangs possess substantial firepower. Officials note that while homicide rates in the Buenos Aires suburbs are lower than in cities like Rio de Janeiro or Bahia, the increasing availability of automatic weapons locally could lead to a similar dangerous escalation. The confrontation began in the Villa La Catenga settlement, where police responded to reports of a shootout and were met with gunfire. One 16-year-old minor was arrested during this initial encounter.

Further police units entered Villa La Catanga and found two 23-year-old men with gunshot wounds, one in the chest and the other with injuries to the arm, face, and neck. They were hospitalized in serious condition and are believed to have been involved in the shootout between a local gang and another operating in the nearby Villa Tranquila settlement. Police responding to the latter settlement were also fired upon, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire without reported injuries.