Tattoos are an important marker of belonging and identity for gang members in El Salvador. So too when it comes to the most loathsome of them all, the MS-13 and 18th Street gangs. These unique identifiers have become common calling cards for law enforcement, tattooing users with distinguishing physical characteristics that tie them to certain crime syndicates. As a key piece of evidence in ongoing investigations, authorities have increasingly relied on tattoos in their efforts to combat gang violence.
Recent reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified specific tattoos associated with various gangs, including the crown tattoo, which has become synonymous with MS-13, and the numbers 13 and 18 that signify allegiance to these rival factions. This trend makes the fight against gang-related crime all the more difficult. It illustrates some of the very complex culture that encompasses these crimes.
The Language of Tattoos
Gang tattoos in El Salvador are a visible and permanent way to illustrate messages, ranks, and connections. As examples, the letters and numbers representing MS-13 and 18th Street gangs are usually heavily marked. The number 13, usually represented by the roman numeral XIII, represents allegiance to the gang MS-13. Conversely, the number 18 signals membership in the opposing gang.
Arturo Suarez Trejo’s tattoo of a crown on his back is a perfect example of this type of tattoo. This symbol has a direct link to the Sinaloa drug cartel in Mexico. MS-13 has even taken to using it, an example of how criminal enterprises are connected regardless of borders. The importance of these types of tattoos goes without saying when it comes to gang culture.
Belarmino García, director of Cecot supermax prison, highlighted the role of tattoos in identifying suspects: “Tattoos have been a key way to identify suspects.” He explained that certain symbols communicate messages to outsiders, warning them to “see nothing, hear nothing, and do nothing” against the gangs. Some other tattoos honor lost brothers in arms or mark intimate ties, such as bad love on the war front.
“The main thing is to kill and deserve to be a gang member.” – Belarmino García
Law Enforcement and Tattoo Identification
It seems that law enforcement agencies are successfully addressing the complexities of gang membership. Because of this, they have resorted to tattoos as important corroborating evidence in their investigations. The DHS has linked crown tattoos to potential membership in the Tren de Aragua gang. To no one’s surprise, the Texas Department of Public Safety has drawn the exact same connection.
Jerce Reyes Barrios, who has a tattoo of a crown over a soccer ball representing his favorite team, Real Madrid, has drawn scrutiny from authorities. A senior DHS official stated: “Jerce Reyes Barrios was not only in the United States illegally, but he has tattoos that are consistent with those indicating TdA gang membership.” This is an example of how tattoos do far more than complicate an individual’s circumstances and worsen their chances in court.
Though tattoos might be a clear way to identify someone’s gang ties, García is quick to point out that the identification process is much more complex. He stressed that this isn’t a manhunt just because someone is tattooed up. The reality is that not everyone with tattoos is up to no good.
“Authorities are searching for members of terrorist organizations who have specific tattoos that identify them with that type of organization.” – Belarmino García
The Impact of Deportation and Its Consequences
The U.S. has already deported hundreds of Venezuelans and Salvadorans. In fact, these individuals were rumored to have colluded with gangs like Tren de Aragua and MS-13 and were deported to El Salvador. These deportees frequently arrive with tattoos that act as markers of their gang memberships. Even today in Cecot prison, officials rely on tattoos as a means to recognize prisoners. They examine these tattoos as a way to understand the ever evolving world of gang culture.
Security and Justice Minister Gustavo Villatoro discussed the importance of tattoos in understanding gang dynamics: “We learn how to understand, how to give interpretation to each tattoo.” He’s put out huge tomes with illustrations and breakdowns of thousands upon thousands of tattoo markings. This collection exposes the subtle, but dangerous language that these designs speak.
This mode of identification is more than skin deep. It adversely affects the communities that are caught in the crossfire of gang violence. Personal stories and collective histories that interlace with larger narratives of crime and survival can be embedded in tattoos as well.
“He has various tattoos on his body related to MS-13. He is an active member.” – Belarmino García
