Ten Fugitives Recaptured After Guatemala Prison Break

Ten of the twenty high-profile inmates who escaped from Guatemala’s Fraijanes II maximum-security prison have been recaptured. The escape, which occurred gradually over the past two months, was only publicly disclosed on Sunday, October 12. 

According to The New York Times, Guatemala’s Interior Minister, Francisco Jiménez, said there had been “rumours” of escapes for around two months, and that some inmates may have slipped out during prison visits. Authorities believe the breakout occurred in stages rather than as a single coordinated event.

Among those rearrested is Byron Fajardo Revolorio, known as “Black Demon”, who is serving a 180-year sentence. Authorities noted that while gang leaders have previously used body doubles to evade incarceration, no such swaps appear to have occurred in this case.

Police continue to search for the remaining fugitives, with regional agencies assisting in efforts to locate and return them to custody.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith says Belize’s proximity to Guatemala raises concerns that the fugitives may try to cross the border, and is urging the public to report any sightings.