18th STREET GANG

The 18th Street Gang, also known as Calle 18, Barrio 18, Mara 18, or simply 18, is a multi-ethnic, transnational criminal organization that started as a street gang in Los Angeles during the 1960s. Formed by Mexican Americans and other immigrant youths, it comprises largely Central American and Mexican members. With an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 members across the United States, Mexico, and Central America, it is one of the largest gangs of its kind. The gang is allied with the Mexican Mafia and is known for its involvement in various criminal activities such as drug trafficking, robbery, and extortion. Along with its rival, MS-13, the 18th Street Gang has contributed to making the Central American northern triangle one of the areas with the highest homicide rates in the world.