Summoned by the opposition to appear before the Chamber of Deputies’ Committee on Security and Coexistence, the Minister noted an increase in “criminal activity between gangs.”

Negro remarked that “the criminal phenomenon of gang warfare requires a specialized approach,” adding that “it is within this segment that the increase is being observed.”

The Minister faced questioning regarding official figures showing a 13.5% rise in homicides between January and September, compared to the same period last year.

Following a six-hour hearing, the official highlighted the addition of 1,500 personnel to the police force—a number set to grow further, with another 1,500 officers expected to begin patrols by March 2027.

He also announced that a recruitment drive will be launched in November to add 1,000 officers to the police force in the capital.

During a press conference, Negro reviewed operations against organized crime, citing a list of 35 leaders of drug-trafficking gangs who have been imprisoned during the current administration’s term.

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