Mass Trial of Alleged Gang Members Under El Salvador's Controversial Crackdown

A Salvadoran court commenced a historic mass trial against 486 alleged gang members on Tuesday, as part of President Nayib Bukele's controversial campaign against gang violence through emergency powers.

The accused, purported members of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha gang, are facing hundreds of charges related to crimes committed over a decade, including homicide and extortion.

While the government asserts this crackdown reduced homicide rates significantly, human rights advocates argue it undermines due process, raising concerns over lengthy detentions and restricted legal access for defendants.

(With inputs from agencies.)