The CECOT prison in El Salvador, which has revolutionized the fight against gangs, not only punishes criminals but also coerces them with harsh methods that can escalate to torture. This tough approach has occasionally faced criticism for international human rights violations. Following the Salvadoran government’s announcement that they are willing to accept convicted criminals deported from the US and accommodate them in the megaprison (CECOT), controversies have resurfaced. The first British journalist to visit the megaprison, David Jones, described the prison’s dark and intimidating atmosphere.
Known for rape, torture, murder, and organized crime, inmates at this prison endure their lives under harsh conditions.
With President Nayib Bukele coming to power, operations against gangs in El Salvador have intensified. The construction of CECOT was aimed at reducing the influence of gangs and controlling crime rates, although it did lead to the restriction of constitutional rights. This governance style produced quick results, lowering crime rates on the streets. The number of murders dropped from 1,140 in 2022 to 22 in 2023. Security operations resulted in confiscating 3,939 firearms and 8,000 vehicles.
However, these harsh methods have been criticized by some human rights groups. The government describes its stringent discipline methods for gang members as the “fight of the century,” but for some of the populace, it is perceived differently. Life inside the prison has turned into a form of torture for inmates, who must spend 23.5 hours a day in narrow metal bunks, devoid of basic needs like fresh air and natural light.
It is reported that over 180 detainees have died due to torture. Inmates are required to wear white t-shirts and shorts and are shaved every five days. They are only allowed to whisper to each other, living entirely under control and isolated. Cells housing over 100 inmates each contain only two toilets, two sinks, and 80 beds.
Moreover, inmates are forced to eat tasteless and small portions of food by hand. With nothing to do for most of the day, prisoners are left waiting in their cells for hours. El Salvador’s fight against gangs has also drawn international attention. President Nayib Bukele offered to accept anyone deported from the US, including American citizens. Bukele shared on social media platform X, “We are ready to accept convicted criminals (including convicted US citizens) in exchange for payment at our megaprison (CECOT).”
However, it remains uncertain whether the US government will accept this offer. Today, the violence and fear that were once frequent on the streets of El Salvador seem to have given way to security. Yet, this transformation, according to some, has been achieved at a heavy cost. Despite securing public safety, the situation of thousands of people deprived of their freedoms remains uncertain.
CECOT symbolizes not just a prison but also the state’s harshness in combating crime. While the transformation in El Salvador has provided significant peace in society, human rights violations in the prison and its severe discipline methods will continue to be debated on the international stage.