Argentina - March 2024

In response to the killings of four innocent civilians by hitmen, there has been a pause in the provision of services in Rosario, one of Argentina’s largest cities.  A majority of schools closed, garbage collected was paused, and transportation strikes took place. Gangs involved in drug trafficking claimed responsibility for these crimes as a direct response to Governor Maximiliano Pullaro’s launch of "Plan Bandera," which deployed federal and state police to target drug-related offenses. This episode represents an unprecedented escalation in violence by drug gangs. Rosario's homicide rate, four times the national average, is tied to drug trade conflicts. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich labelled the situation as one of "narcoterrorism," prompting President Milei to consider expanding military intervention. The potential legislation to increase the military's involvement also generates debate due to Argentina's military role in the violation of human rights during its last dictatorship.
 
Source: BBC, Pagina 12, Sputnik news