Guatemalan lawmaker and three police officers killed in armed attack

Monday, November 9, 2026 - Guatemala is facing renewed security concerns after an armed attack in the eastern department of Zacapa left opposition lawmaker Julio César Portillo Paz and three police officers dead. The deadly incident occurred on Friday, November 6, 2026, in Río Hondo, an area associated with organised drug trafficking activity.

Portillo was seriously wounded during the attack and rushed to hospital, where he later died. The three National Civil Police officers also lost their lives after coming under fire while responding to the attack. The killings have sparked fresh concerns about the growing threat of organised criminal violence in the country.

President Bernardo Arévalo condemned the killings and ordered security agencies to work closely with prosecutors to identify those responsible. Guatemala's Interior Ministry described the incident as a direct attack against the lawmaker, while his political party, National Unity of Hope (UNE), confirmed his death and expressed condolences.

The attackers reportedly escaped, and authorities have not yet identified any suspects or established a motive. Zacapa is a region known for drug trafficking, with the Lorenzana criminal organisation linked to the area's illegal drug trade and Mexico's Sinaloa cartel. However, investigators have not confirmed any connection between the group and this particular attack.

The killings come at a sensitive moment for Guatemala, where concerns over organised crime, political violence and public security are growing. The recent murder of former anti-corruption prosecutor Juan Francisco Solórzano Foppa has added to fears about the safety of public officials and the country's ability to confront criminal networks.

Authorities have not established a link between the two incidents, but the latest attack has intensified calls for stronger security and accountability. As investigations continue, pressure is mounting on the government to identify those behind the killings and prevent further attacks against public officials and security personnel.