MS-13 Gang Members: Comparing the Numbers in El Salvador and the United States

MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is one of the most notorious and feared international street gangs. The gang is present in multiple nations, but it is especially prominent in El Salvador and the United States. In this article, we'll delve into the numbers of MS-13 gang members in both countries, analyzing the reasons behind their presence and growth.

Overview of MS-13

MS-13 originated in the United States, but it has since spread to other countries, most notably El Salvador, where it began a new chapter of its history. The gang is characterized by its violent nature, drug trafficking, and involvement in human trafficking. While not as prevalent in the United States as it once was, MS-13 remains a significant threat in El Salvador, where it is believed to have a larger and more active presence.

Numbers in El Salvador

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in 2021, it was estimated that there were around 30,000 active members of MS-13 in El Salvador. This is a significant number considering El Salvador's population, which is approximately 6.5 million. The gang's presence is so widespread that it has divided the country into territories controlled by different MS-13 factions, leading to ongoing violence and instability.

Numbers in the United States

In the United States, the situation is somewhat different. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) estimated that there were around 10,200 active MS-13 members as of 2021. However, it is important to note that the actual number could be higher due to underreporting and the difficulty in accurately counting gang members. The US population is much larger, with over 331 million people, which explains why the per capita ratio of MS-13 members is much lower in the US compared to El Salvador.

Reasons for the Presence and Growth of MS-13

El Salvador: El Salvador's high rate of MS-13 membership can be attributed to various socio-economic factors. The country has a history of political violence, including the 12-year civil war that ended in 1992. The war left a legacy of violence and weapon trafficking that has fueled the growth of gangs. Additionally, the country has a high poverty rate, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line. This creates an environment where young people are more likely to join gangs for protection, status, and economic gain.

United States: In the United States, MS-13 initially grew due to the influx of Salvadoran immigrants following the civil war. These immigrants brought their gang culture with them, and over time, the gang evolved and expanded its activities. The US also has a significant number of incarcerated gang members, which has contributed to the spread of gang culture within prison systems and beyond.

Consequences and Impact

The presence of MS-13 in both countries brings serious consequences. In El Salvador, the gang's activities have led to a high number of violent crimes, including murders, kidnappings, and extortions. The gang also extorts local businesses and individuals, causing economic turmoil. In the United States, the gang has been linked to drug trafficking, calls for violence against political figures, and other criminal activities. Both countries have implemented various strategies to combat the gang, including increased law enforcement efforts, community programs, and incarceration of gang members.

Conclusion

While the number of MS-13 gang members in El Salvador (30,000) is significantly higher than in the United States (10,200), the overall situation in each country is unique. Addressing the root causes of the gang's presence, such as poverty, lack of economic opportunities, and socio-economic inequality, is crucial. This requires a multifaceted approach involving government, community organizations, and international cooperation.