More than 70 felons escaped a maximum-security prison near Escuintla, 40 miles south of Guatemala City, June 17. Many were convicted of violent crimes and most remain at large. The government has suspended several constitutional guarantees, including protection from arrest without a warrant and the right to enter and exit the country freely. This action, combined with increased police activity, makes persons subject to possible traffic stops, searches, detention and interrogation, without normal constitutional protections. Travel throughout the country may be hampered because of police roadblocks. Carry photo identification and cooperate with police if questioned. Commercial and government services also may be disrupted.
