Gangs Recruit Minors as Young as 11 in Progreso, Lawyer Warns

Progreso, Yucatán — Criminal gangs are increasingly recruiting minors in the port of Progreso and its surrounding communities, drawing children as young as 11 into motorcycle theft, assaults, home burglaries and alleged drug distribution, according to lawyer Juan M. R.

The lawyer and other sources familiar with the issue said adolescents from vulnerable sectors are especially at risk, with gangs exploiting difficult family situations, lack of supervision and economic need. They also take advantage of the fact that legal protections for minors often mean young offenders are released quickly or never face trial.

The recruitment process typically begins with promises of fast, easy money, according to the sources. The minors are then gradually drawn deeper into criminal activity until they become part of the gang structure.

Previous years saw youth groups identified in the municipality, including Los 13, Los 16, cells linked to the group known as Sur 13, and Los Chuchulecos, along with other groups without a specific name. These organizations are now believed to be spread across different neighborhoods and municipal subdivisions.

A major concern is that teenagers may develop substance addictions, leading them to commit more robberies and other crimes to fund their habit.

No official figures exist on how many minors are linked to gangs in the municipality, but people familiar with the issue estimate the number at between 300 and 500. Only a fraction have been formally detained or identified in connection with a crime.

The gangs have also been tied to conflicts in areas residents consider problematic, including Flamboyanes, sections of Calle 37 to the west, Calle 39 to the east, and the vicinity of the gas plant, where clashes between young people have been reported.