Image of East Street on Saturday, May 20.VÍCTOR RAMÍREZ
Some locals blame the increase in crime on the emergence of “gangs” or gangs known as “Los Trinitarios” and “Las Panteras,” which gather in the surrounding areas and carry out their “misdeeds.”
Fearful of identifying themselves or being filmed, members of the neighborhood said that the police are aware of who the criminals are and do nothing about it.
One of the community members indicated that they often arrest them and release them immediately, so she understands that the situation will not be eradicated.
Nelson Marmolejo, one of the residents of the area, said that crime was like in “other places,” but about a month ago, a few streets up, things intensified, first with an assault in which the victim was stabbed and then with the shooting death of the young Emely Vallejo, several days ago.
Likewise, a shopkeeper in the area expressed his insecurity due to the presence of criminal gangs and recent events, which keep him frightened in the sector.
He also specified that although “the police are doing their job” and patrolling the area, they are not “magicians” and therefore they are not able to solve the criminal situation.
He also called for awareness, since crime is a social problem that comes from the lack of education, said the owner of a shop in the area.