On 24 January 2020, the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City issued a Security Alert that reads in part as follows:
“Location: Municipality of Villa Nueva, Department of Guatemala
“Event: State of Prevention, Increased Military and Police Presence
“The Government of Guatemala has announced a State of Prevention for the Municipality of Villa Nueva. The State of Prevention is due to the ongoing security situation in Villa Nueva where there is significant gang activity and other violent crime. The State of Prevention is expected to last for six days, and there will be an increased military and police presence in this area to conduct search warrants and arrest operations.
“Effective immediately, U.S. Embassy official and personal travel to the Municipality of Villa Nueva will only be authorized on a case-by-case basis throughout the State of Prevention period. The Municipality of Villa Nueva falls along a major travel route (CA-9 South) to non-restricted destinations. Travel along CA-9 S will still be permitted; however, U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to not stop in Villa Nueva while transiting to other destinations.
“Please be aware that there will likely be official police check points along CA-9 and other routes leading to / from Villa Nueva. If you are stopped at an official checkpoint, please comply with all police commands and requests. Embassy operations are normal.”
