Guatemala declares 30-day emergency in two departments

Guatemala has imposed a 30-day state of emergency in the eastern departments of Zacapa and Izabal after a series of armed attacks, including the November 6 killing of lawmaker Julio Cesar Portillo and three police officers in Zacapa. The decree restricts outdoor gatherings and allows security forces to disperse groups by force, make arrests and enter homes without warrants. Authorities say the measures are intended to protect residents amid growing concern about organized crime and drug-trafficking groups; officials have not identified those responsible for the attack. The move follows Washington’s designation of several crime groups operating in Zacapa as terrorist organizations and accusations of ties to Mexican cartels.