El Salvador reports historic drop in homicides as Bukele security strategy draws international attention
SAN SALVADOR, March — El Salvador is emerging as a regional reference point on public security after recording historically low homicide levels under President Nayib Bukele’s anti-gang strategy, a policy that authorities say is also helping attract foreign investment. According to the National Civil Police (PNC), no homicides were recorded during the first 20 days of 2026, extending a downward trend in violent crime that officials attribute to ongoing security measures overseen by the government’s security cabinet. Police authorities publish daily updates through official channels reporting days without killings, reinforcing what the government describes as sustained improvements in public safety for citizens and businesses. El Salvador recorded 303 days without homicides in 2025 and closed the year with 82 killings, none linked to gangs, authorities said. The figure represents a 28% decline from 2024, when 114 homicides were registered. Officials credit the results to initiative...