Honduras: Mara Gang

Marked men with no place to hide

The Honduran government's crackdown on street gangs has been swift, severe, and - to the relief of the public - successful. But some wonder if so heavy-handed an approach is really the best model for gang control.

TEGUCIGALPA, HONDURAS - The government of Honduras is savoring a victory. Exactly one year ago, it declared war on the "mareros" - members of street gangs accused of terrorizing the country. Today, Honduras's mareros - once estimated at 30,000 strong - are for the most part dead, imprisoned, or in hiding.

But even as the country celebrates its freedom from violence and fear, there are those who look with dismay at what has taken place in Honduras.

Yes, they say, the brutality of gang rule has been checked, allowing the country's 6.6 million citizens to return to normal life. But, these critics add, a high price has been paid for this new-found peace. Civil liberties have been eroded and, they worry, oppressive anti-gang legislation will push the remaining gang members further to the margins of society - into a position both precarious and menacing.

Intro by: Raphaele Bail