I wonder who is selling them the now illegal guns?

I do know the murder rate if high there, terrifying. Are these gangs that are organized or just...

Good grief, I don't know what they are. Look at the RWNJs we have running loose in America.

Was the growth of criminal groups from poverty or corruption, or a subculture that has always been this way?

Venezuela has changed so much, even though I've never been there and I know you have, but I've known a number of people who lived there and really loved it.

A long time ago.

Wow, I need some sleep. Sorry if that didn't make much sense.

They have purchased arms from Russia in large amounts. I would assume guns are trafficked from across the border too. I would guess the prohibition is poorly enforced as the violence has escalated. The government has made a conscience decision to NOT address crime in Venezuela as criminals derive from poorer areas typically associated with chavista supporters. A heavy hand might turn their supporters away.

Yes, Ven used to be nice to visit.