ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay – A large-scale police operation dubbed "Operativo Dominatus" successfully dismantled three powerful criminal organizations in the Ricardo Brugada neighborhood of Asunción, Paraguay, commonly known as "Chacarita." The operation led to the arrest of eight individuals who were found to be attempting to emulate international criminal syndicates.

Massive Deployment of Forces Leads to Successful Operation 

On Wednesday morning, approximately 300 police officers were deployed to the Chacarita slum, carrying out simultaneous raids. Asunción Police Chief Juan Agüero described the operation as "very positive," sending a strong warning to criminal elements in the area. The swift and decisive police response is expected to bring about new changes to a region long known as a haven for crime.

Luis López, head of the Organized Crime Investigation Unit, stated in a press conference that the arrested gang leaders were "organizing themselves, imitating international organizations." They specifically targeted and recruited adolescents aged 14 to 15 for their criminal activities. Exploiting the limited criminal responsibility of minors under the Paraguayan judicial system, these gangs coerced young people into committing various crimes, including theft, drug trafficking, and acts of violence, to minimize their own risks. This indicates a progression beyond mere local gangs into a more structured and dangerous form of crime.

"Extremely Dangerous" Leaders Arrested 

The arrested gang leaders were individuals wanted for serious crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, and illegal possession of weapons, classifying them as "extremely dangerous" criminals. The main gangs dismantled by this operation were 'La Banda del Yogurt' (The Yogurt Band), 'La Banda de Cara de Guerra' (The War-Face Band), and 'Candula.' These groups had continuously fostered anxiety and fear among Chacarita residents, with frequent armed clashes between rival gangs severely threatening public safety in the community. Residents feared being caught in gang fights, and the safety of children was also a serious concern. With the cessation of their activities following these arrests, local residents are experiencing a long-awaited sense of relief.

Simultaneous raids at nine locations resulted in the arrest of eight individuals, including five men and three women. All had valid arrest warrants and various criminal records. The operation was carried out through close cooperation between specialized units of the Paraguayan National Police and the judiciary, based on thorough prior planning and intelligence gathering. Seized evidence included illegal weapons, drugs, and cash believed to be criminal proceeds, proving their extensive criminal activities.

Government's Strong Will to Combat Crime 

The Paraguayan government views "Operativo Dominatus" as part of a comprehensive security strategy aimed at "directly confronting organized crime, strengthening state intervention in vulnerable areas, and reclaiming public spaces for citizens." This operation is seen not just as an effort to apprehend criminals but also as a strong demonstration of the state's commitment to establishing law and order and providing a safe environment for all citizens. In particular, preventing adolescents from being exposed to crime and fostering an environment where they can grow up healthy has emerged as a crucial task for the government.

Chacarita has historically been known as one of Paraguay's poorest and highest-crime areas. Unregistered housing and labyrinthine alleys often served as hideouts for criminal organizations. However, through this operation, the government has sent a clear message that it will no longer tolerate such "lawless zones." Moving forward, the government plans to continue its focus on vulnerable areas like Chacarita, going beyond mere police deployment to implement multifaceted support through education, welfare, and other initiatives to address fundamental issues. This long-term approach is expected to contribute to reducing crime rates and stabilizing the community.