A funnel for drug trafficking across the Americas, Honduras has one of the highest homicide rates in the world. At the root of this are the Maras, a network of rival drug gangs each controlling a certain territory. Amongst these gangs violence is religion. With a high rate of poverty and unemployment, Honduras is also the second poorest country on the American continent, with high rates of poverty and unemployment leading to young people turning to criminality to make a living.
But there are those who have found success in Honduras. One tobacco company employs a large number of people, paying 20% above the minimum wage and so encouraging people to stay away from crime. Tourism has also had a positive impact on the Bay Islands, offering an example as to how the country can improve it’s situation by providing both jobs and revenue.
An insight into the violent world of drugs and corruption, during the filming of which 230 people were killed over 2 weeks.
Guatemala is one of the most violent countries in the world. 95% of murders remain unsolved and the ultra-violent maras manage drug trafficking, prostitution and racketeering in the country and spread terror among the population.
More info
After the arrests of the Mafia godfathers, Italy hoped that it had put an end to organized crime. Instead, a new generation of mobsters has emerged.
More info
They are one of the most notorious, violent gangs in Central America, turning cities into war zones and threatening the authority of the state. Thierry Gayton is one of the few journalists in the world to have filmed the Maras, their lives and their crimes.
More info