El Salvador has extended a state of emergency that was imposed a month ago by another 30 days — despite reports of serious human rights violations. The crackdown was enacted due to rising homicides attributed to gangs. The order suspends freedom of assembly, weakens due process rights for those arrested and extends the time people can be held without charge. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele says over 18,000 accused gang members have been detained. Residents of the capital San Salvador say everyone is being targeted.

Luis Contreras: “The people are being affected, not only the bad guys but also good people. Children are being frisked, and I think this means rights violations.”

Jorge Urruela: “They arrest anyone. They arrest people because of the way they dress or their hairstyle. It’s a matter of luck. They have even detained elderly people.”