Mass trial begins in El Salvador

El Salvador’s judiciary has launched one of the largest criminal proceedings in its history, targeting the high command of the notorious MS-13 cartel.

The 486 defendants face a staggering list of charges that include homicide, drug trafficking, and forced disappearances committed over a decade.

The trial is a cornerstone of the government's ongoing crackdown on gang violence, which has seen tens of thousands arrested under emergency powers.

Human rights organizations have monitored the proceedings, expressing concern over the use of mass trials and the potential for due process violations.