Pictures / Fotografías

Because the stigma for belonging to a gang can be quite dangerous, tattoo removal is quite common. Depicted here is an inexpensive form of removal using an infrared gun.
Another way to hide tattoos is to wear long sleeves, like this former MS-13 member who wears long sleeves under his shirts to avoid being targeted by former enemies or the police.
Antonio (pseudonym) was killed six weeks after I took this photo of him in his shoe shine shop in Europlaza, an upscale business center in Guatemala City. Since no investigation was conducted, the exact motive for his murder is unknown.
JJ – Former member and leader of a White Fence cell in Guatemala City.

One of several tombs of gang members the cemetery of the López Arellana neighborhood.