In a shocking case that highlights the brutality of organized crime in Argentina, a court has sentenced two individuals for their roles in the orchestrated execution of Brian Giménez. The verdict was delivered after a trial that revealed the extent of drug-related violence in Rosario, where a fierce battle for control among narco gangs has claimed numerous lives.
Details of the Execution
Brian Giménez, 24, known as “Paraguayo,” was executed on October 3, 2022. This gruesome act occurred in a house controlled by a gang led by former Peruvian pilot Julio Rodríguez Granthon. The method of execution was particularly chilling. Giménez was restrained and had a live video call with Brian Emanuel Villalba, the supposed leader of the hitmen known as “El Peruano,” who ordered the murder from prison.
Following the execution, Rosario recorded its deadliest year on record. In 2022, the city suffered a staggering 287 homicides, a rise attributed to escalating violence among competing drug factions. Of these murders, 89% involved firearms, indicating a reliance on hired killers and execution-style tactics.
The Narco Warfare Landscape
The war between Villalba’s gang and “Los Menores,” led by Matías Gazzani, has been characterized by extreme violence. Notably, over 30 people lost their lives in the dispute, affecting many who had no direct ties to the conflict. The violence has particularly impacted neighborhoods like Stella Maris, 7 de Septiembre, and Emaús, and has seen a troubling increase in female victims.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
In the recent trial, the court examined evidence including testimonies and recorded communications. The video call where the murder was ordered became a crucial piece of evidence. Brian Villalba was ultimately sentenced to 23 years as the instigator, which, when combined with his existing sentence, totaled 46 years. His cousin, César Villalba, who executed the murder, received a 26-year sentence.
The Role of Prisons in Crime Management
Prisons in Argentina, particularly in this case, have been highlighted as operational hubs for criminal enterprises. Villalba has maintained control of his gang from behind bars since his imprisonment for a previous murder in 2011. His ability to coordinate criminal activities from jail demonstrates the alarming connection between organized crime and the penal system.
- Year of Homicides: 2022 marked Rosario’s deadliest record with 287 homicides.
- Gun Violence: 89% of murders were committed with firearms.
- Criminal Disputes: Over 30 fatalities in gang conflicts over two years.
Efforts to address the rising violence included federal reinforcements and changes in local security leadership. However, despite these measures, the entrenched nature of gang violence remains a critical concern for authorities and community members alike.
Conclusion
The recent sentencing in the Giménez case sheds light on the severe ramifications of drug-related violence in Argentina. As gangs continue to vie for dominance, the lethal combination of organized crime and prison influence poses significant challenges for law enforcement and society.
