Uruguay: Violent crime rates increase in 2018

Event

According to official statistics, there were 218 homicides in Uruguay during the first six months of 2018. This represents a 66 percent increase compared to the same time period in 2017. Officials said that 40 percent of the incidents were related to fighting between criminal groups, including in the capital Montevideo. Earlier this year, Interior Minister Eduardo Bonomi claimed that the rise in violence is linked to inter-gang conflict, particularly related to drug trafficking.

Context

Government officials and independent researchers are still investigating the rise in violent crimes. Initial government reports indicate that the cause may be linked to the legal marijuana market in the country. Marijuana was legalized and put under government regulation in 2017, which researchers believe may put increasing pressure on gangs that control the illegal drug market in the country.

Advice

Individuals in Uruguay are advised to remain vigilant, follow all instructions issued by local authorities, and exercise basic security precautions (e.g. keep signs of wealth concealed, drive with doors locked and windows rolled up, etc.).