The arrest of William Alcívar Bautista, leader of Ecuador's Tiguerones gang, and his brother in Spain could accelerate the gang's fragmentation, potentially increasing violence in Ecuador. The Tiguerones, originating from the Choneros prison gang, have been involved in significant criminal activities, including cocaine trafficking and violent power struggles in Esmeraldas. Recent security crackdowns and rival gang attacks have weakened the Tiguerones, and the arrest of their leaders may lead to further instability as remaining members vie for control.

The capture of William Alcívar Bautista, leader of Ecuador's Tiguerones, in Spain could accelerate the fragmentation of the group, which is already weakened by internal disputes and rival attacks. The Tiguerones, a powerful criminal organization involved in cocaine trafficking, have been destabilized by government crackdowns and rival factions. The arrest of Bautista and his brother, Álex, may lead to increased violence in Ecuador as rival gangs exploit the group's vulnerability.

The article discusses the increasing use of music and sound apps to improve mental well-being, highlighting the emotional and physiological benefits of music. It mentions apps like Hear, which blends unwanted noise, and Mindscape, which provides music-based solutions for mental issues. The NHS listed app Cove is also featured as a mood journal that uses music. The author reflects on personal music streaming habits and the trend of curated playlists for mood regulation. The article also touches on the social aspect of music through events like sound baths and exercise trends that incorporate music, such as Morning Gloryville.

Environmental activists and indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon await the verdict in the Saweto murder case, which has become a test of impunity surrounding environmental crimes in Peru. The trial for the 2014 murders of indigenous Asháninka leaders Edwin Chota, Leoncio Quintisima, Jorge Ríos, and Francisco Pinedo is in its final stages, with a verdict expected on April 11. The accused, alleged illegal loggers Eurico Mapes Gómez and the Atachi Félix brothers, and timber businessmen José Estrada Huayta and Hugo Soria Flores, had been previously convicted with 28-year sentences, but the conviction was controversially overturned on a technicality. The case highlights the increasing violence against those defending the Amazon and the struggle for justice amid systemic challenges.

A massacre in Ecuador's Litoral Penitentiary highlights the rapid fragmentation of criminal organizations as government security measures falter. The attack, involving gangs like the Duendes and Freddy Kruegers, resulted in 17 deaths and numerous injuries. The incident underscores the growing influence of smaller, violent groups within the prison system and on the streets, challenging the interim government of President Daniel Noboa. The military's role in controlling these gangs is questioned, as violence and criminality continue to rise, mirroring challenges faced by countries like Colombia and Mexico.

A report by Global Witness reveals the extensive corruption and fraud in Peru's timber industry, focusing on the 2015 Yacu Kallpa operation, which attempted to seize illegal timber. Despite initial success, the operation faced significant political and industry backlash, highlighting the challenges Peru faces in combating illegal logging. The investigation exposed how illegal timber is laundered into the legal market, with complicity from corrupt officials and companies. The case underscores the need for a strong commitment to tackling corruption and protecting the Amazon rainforest.

Rodrigo Tovar Pupo, alias 'Jorge 40,' a former commander of the AUC, received a 16-year sentence for drug trafficking in the US, potentially reducing his prison time to five years with good behavior. The case has sparked controversy over the US's role in prosecuting Colombian paramilitaries, with critics arguing that such leaders should face justice in Colombia for their human rights abuses. Despite the lenient sentence, Jorge 40 may face further legal challenges in Colombia, where he is accused of over 20,000 criminal acts.

The cost-of-living crisis in the UK is leading to increased consumption of processed foods due to their lower cost. A BBC Good Food survey indicated that 20% of Brits are eating more processed foods, and a report from The Lancet linked poor health outcomes to corporate influence on diets. Non-profit Bite Back reported a significant increase in fast food advertising, while the government delayed a ban on junk food ads. Supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi, and Lidl are taking steps to promote healthier options through price promotions and educational initiatives. Danone's James Mayer suggested taxing unhealthy foods to drive the industry towards healthier products. However, the current government is unlikely to impose such taxes, leaving consumers with limited healthy food choices within their budget.

At least 13 people died in a prison mutiny in Cadereyta prison, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, allegedly due to an attempted takeover by the Zetas. The riot involved inmates taking guards hostage and protesting against the prison director's alleged ties to the Zetas. Authorities intervened with police patrols and negotiations. The incident underscores the pervasive criminal control and corruption within Mexico's underfunded and overpopulated prison system, where organized crime groups like the Zetas exert significant influence.

Less than one percent of crimes in Mexico are punished, highlighting severe structural and institutional weaknesses. The Mexico Global Impunity Index by CESIJ at Universidad de Las Américas reveals that only 4.46 percent of recorded crimes result in convictions, and over 99 percent of crimes go unpunished when unreported crimes are considered. The report attributes Mexico's high impunity levels to political failures, weak and corrupt institutions, and organized crime. Recommendations include professionalizing institutions, improving transparency, and ensuring political independence, but these require resources and political will that are currently lacking.