Gangs in El Salvador’s Public Schools

Abstract

This descriptive study focuses on the presence of criminal gangs (MS-13 and B-18) in El Salvador’s public schools while addressing it from four different perspectives: the reasons behind the penetration of gangs in schools, commission of criminal acts, the creation
of social problems and finally control exercised within these schools. A series of experiences were collected from individuals involved, as well as official statistics and police reports. Finally, a general overview of the problem and its consequences for public security was concluded, which in turn ensued in a series of recommendations to treat the phenomenon as a security issue.

Revista Policía y Seguridad Pública 5(1) 2015: 247-298