Guatemala arrests 28, including 9 police, in crime ring bust

GUATEMALA CITY – Guatemalan authorities have arrested 28 people, including nine police officers, in a bust of a network allegedly involved in organized crime and drug trafficking.

Prosecutor Gerson Alegria said Monday at a news conference that the ring had been under investigation since last year.

The suspects allegedly contacted drug vendors under the guise of doing business and then stole their merchandise with the support of police belonging to the ring known as “the Moroccans.”

They group also allegedly carried out illegal raids to loot residences, wearing police uniforms and vests and brandishing weapons to intimidate occupants.

Prosecutors say the suspects also killed drug dealers whose wares they stole.

The bust comprised 93 raids in eight departments and was carried out on the basis of wiretaps and surveillance.