The notorious MS13 gang, born in the turbulent 1980s in Los Angeles, continues to cast a long shadow. While its presence in LA may not be as overt as in its heyday, the gang’s influence persists both domestically and internationally. This article explores the evolution of MS13, its current state in Los Angeles compared to the 1980s, and its broader impact across the Americas.
A typical MS13 tag in El Salvador. While the gang originated in Los Angeles, its presence is now much stronger in Central America.
From LA’s Streets to International Reach
The Mara Salvatrucha, or MS13, emerged amidst the influx of Central American refugees into Los Angeles during the 1980s. Initially formed for protection and identity in marginalized communities, the gang quickly evolved into a criminal enterprise fueled by violence and extortion. While law enforcement efforts and changing demographics have impacted MS13’s presence in LA, the gang adapted, expanding its operations across Central America, Mexico, and even into Europe.
MS13 in the 80s vs. Today: A Shift in Landscape
In the 1980s, MS13’s presence in Los Angeles was characterized by open street warfare with rival gangs, particularly Barrio 18. This period saw a surge in violent crime and established MS13’s reputation for brutality. Today, while the gang still maintains a presence in LA, its operations are less visible. Law enforcement crackdowns, community initiatives, and demographic shifts have contributed to this change. However, the gang’s ability to adapt and operate discreetly makes it a persistent threat.
Police patrolling in El Salvador. Security forces throughout the Americas continue to combat the threat posed by MS13.
Beyond LA: MS13’s Stronghold in Central America
While its presence in Los Angeles has evolved, MS13 found fertile ground in Central America. Deported gang members, weak governance, and pervasive poverty fueled the gang’s growth in El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala. These countries now grapple with MS13’s pervasive influence on daily life, marked by extortion, violence, and control over communities.
A Complex Web: Leadership, Allies, and Enemies
MS13’s structure is decentralized, with cliques operating independently under regional leaders. The gang’s main rivals remain Barrio 18, and their feud continues to fuel violence in various regions. Over time, MS13 has also demonstrated a capacity for political maneuvering, forging alliances and engaging in negotiations with governments to further its interests.
InSight Crime Co-director Steven Dudley interviewing an MS13 gang member in El Salvador in 2015.
An Uncertain Future: Crackdowns and Resilience
Recent years have seen intensified efforts to combat MS13, particularly in El Salvador, where mass arrests and crackdowns have significantly weakened the gang’s operational capacity. However, MS13’s resilience, adaptability, and transnational network pose ongoing challenges. The gang’s ability to regenerate and exploit vulnerabilities ensures that it remains a significant security concern across the Americas.
Conclusion: A Persistent Threat
The question of whether there are still gangs in LA compared to the 80s is complex. While MS13’s presence in the city may not be as visible as in its early days, the gang’s capacity for violence and criminal activity persists. Moreover, its expansion throughout Central America and beyond highlights the transnational nature of the gang problem and the need for comprehensive strategies to address its root causes and ongoing impact.
