Suspect in Attack on Former Police Official Linked to Two Crimes in Guatemala

A man identified as Saulo Sebastián Pérez Sunún, allegedly a member of the Mara Salvatrucha gang, will be investigated for murder and attempted murder in connection with an attack on a former deputy director of Guatemala's National Civil Police (PNC). The attack resulted in the deaths of the former official's niece and a family friend.

During a hearing, Pérez Sunún, who confirmed his gang affiliation, was ordered to remain in pretrial detention for three months. The court scheduled the next hearing for September 18. Prosecutors allege that the suspect premeditated the attack, surveilling the victims before assaulting them along with other unidentified individuals.

The former deputy director, Helver Beltetón, and his daughter were unharmed in the incident. Authorities are still searching for other individuals believed to be involved in the attack. The investigation is being handled by the Special Prosecutor's Office against Femicide.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about gang violence in Guatemala and its impact on public officials and their families. The PNC has been working to combat gang activity, but such incidents underscore the persistent challenges.