SUMMARY

La Raza was a prison gang in El Salvador, based primarily in the La Mariona prison, one of the country's largest correctional facilities.

Consisting of individuals primarily involved in criminal activities within the prison system, La Raza attracted members through alliances and the selective use of violence, especially against other gangs. Within the prison system, it demonstrated formidable military capabilities, utilizing armed force to assert control over La Mariona. Between the late 1990s and the early 2000s, the prison gang extended its influence throughout other prison facilities in the country, effectively taking control of much of the prison system.

La Raza’s central figure and leader was José Edgardo Bruno Ventura, alias El Brother, who despite not originating from traditional street gang backgrounds, wielded significant influence due to his charisma and strategic use of violence. El Brother's reign as the leader of La Raza coincided with a period of heightened gang control within the prison system, particularly in La Mariona. The organization's dominance underscored the challenges faced by authorities in managing and securing correctional facilities.

La Raza has been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organized violence.