Dear Clients and Colleagues,
We are monitoring fast-moving security developments in Guatemala following a surge in gang-related violence, including coordinated unrest at multiple prisons and armed attacks targeting police in and around Guatemala City.
Guatemalan authorities have announced a 30-day emergency measure expanding security-force authorities, and the U.S. Embassy has issued a Security Alert advising U.S. citizens to take heightened precautions.
Key points (as of January 18–19):
- Reports of violence and armed attacks on police throughout Guatemala City and the surrounding areas.
- Temporary emergency measures announced by the Guatemalan government to support law-enforcement operations against gangs and organized crime.
- U.S. Embassy personnel were instructed to shelter in place, and U.S. citizens are advised to monitor local developments closely.
Practical steps for Americans with travel plans, personnel, or operations in Guatemala:
- Limit movement / avoid hotspots. Avoid crowds, demonstrations, and large public gatherings. Keep a low profile and minimize nonessential movement.
- Tighten internal comms. Ensure your team has reliable check-in procedures, local emergency contacts, and a plan for rapid changes (such as route adjustments, shelter-in-place, and lodging contingencies).
- Monitor official sources. Follow local news and U.S. Embassy updates; consider enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts.
- Review duty-of-care and security protocols. Confirm your organization’s travel risk policies, incident response escalation, and contractor/vendor security posture.
Business operations & compliance. For companies with supply chains, logistics, or high-value shipments moving through Guatemala, consider short-term scenario planning (delays, route changes, secure storage, insurance review).
If you need support
Our team can assist with practical risk planning for travel and on-the-ground operations, including communications planning, coordination with local counsel/partners, and crisis-response preparation. This message is provided for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
Respectfully,
Poblete Tamargo LLP
This post is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Each case turns on its facts. Poblete Tamargo is a boutique national security law and public policy practice advising clients on complex matters, including complex consular matters, wrongful detention by foreign governments, economic sanctions, export controls, and congressional oversight. We also counsel employers and travelers on compliant travel planning, documentation, and government engagement strategies. To discuss a specific situation, contact our team.