Human Rights Abuses in El Salvador Prisons

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
At least 261 people have died in El Salvador's prisons during President Nayib Bukele's crackdown on street gangs. The deaths are attributed to various causes including criminal acts, illnesses, and violence. Rights groups report mass human rights abuses in the government's sweeps of suspected gang members, leading to the release of some individuals due to lack of evidence. Despite criticism, Bukele remains popular due to a decrease in homicide rates.

Key Points

  • At least 261 people have died in El Salvador's prisons during President Nayib Bukele's crackdown on street gangs
  • 87 deaths were due to illnesses, 14 were acts of violence, and 88 may have been the result of criminal acts
  • Rights groups report arbitrary detentions based on appearance or location
  • Bukele's popularity has increased due to a decrease in homicide rates despite criticism

Pros

  • Decrease in homicide rates in El Salvador

Cons

  • Mass human rights abuses in government's crackdown on street gangs
  • Deaths due to torture, lack of food, and unhealthy conditions in prisons