These Are the 10 Most Dangerous Gangs in the World

Throughout history, humans have established gangs as a means of safeguarding one another against adversaries. Initially, these early street gangs emerged out of necessity, with impoverished individuals uniting to plunder the wealthy and interfere with political affairs. As time progressed, the world witnessed the rise of highly formidable gangs that adopted a more structured approach, ultimately giving rise to the Mafia, which made its way into America during the 1920s.

Ever since, the influence of violent gangs has permeated across the globe. The majority of these groups engage in various illicit endeavors, ranging from drug trafficking to illegal arms trade, accumulating vast sums of money annually. Prospective members frequently endure a rigorous initiation phase to prove their loyalty, often necessitating the act of taking someone’s life to gain admission.

Over the years, aggressive gangs have been depicted in a glorified manner in movies and television shows. Works like The Godfather, The Sopranos, and Narcos shed a different perspective on gang life. However, these portrayals often overlook the brutal violence associated with these gangs.

Meeting the world’s most dangerous gangs in a dimly lit alley is an unwise choice, considering their willingness to kill over unpaid debts or disrespect towards their female associates. These individuals are ruthless criminals fully immersed in the gang lifestyle.

To avoid getting involved with the wrong crowd, be aware of the following list of the world’s most perilous gangs.

These Are the 10 Most Dangerous Gangs in the World

Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13)

Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), a notorious criminal gang, emerged in Los Angeles during the 70s and 80s. Originally established to safeguard Salvadorian immigrants from rival gangs, MS-13 swiftly delved into criminal activities, solidifying their reputation as a formidable and dangerous force.

Following the conclusion of the Salvadoran Civil War in 1992, numerous gang members were expelled and sent back to El Salvador, resulting in the establishment of a dominant presence in South America. Presently, MS-13 has expanded its influence across various regions, yet the majority of the gang remains primarily located in South America.

It is disheartening to note that a significant number of MS-13 gang members are compelled to join during their early childhood. They are forcibly recruited by the gang, taken away from their homes and coerced into becoming members. The initiation procedure includes subjecting new recruits to a ritualistic beating lasting for a duration of 13 seconds, commonly referred to as a “beat-in.”

Since 2015, the gang known as Mara Salvatrucha has gained a notorious reputation for its extreme violence. Disturbing reports indicate a staggering 70% surge in the number of crimes committed by this gang. Furthermore, the Mara Salvatrucha holds significant influence over the main political party in El Salvador, effectively granting them control over the country and its marijuana trade.

Sinaloa Cartel

In recent years, the Sinaloa Cartel gained global attention when its leader, Joaquin Guzman Loera (El Chapo), escaped from prison. El Chapo was initially apprehended in 1993 and sent to Mexico to serve his sentence, but managed to escape in 2001. Despite being arrested once more in 2014, El Chapo regained control of the cartel. Undeterred, he successfully escaped again and was eventually recaptured in 2015, subsequently being extradited to the United States for his sentence.

Chapo’s sons and Ismael Zambada García have taken over the gang’s leadership, leading to the continuous expansion of their organization. The Sinaloa Cartel has gained global recognition as one of the largest drug trafficking groups. It is estimated that the cartel generates an impressive annual revenue of approximately $3 billion and controls a staggering 60% of the drug trade between the US and Mexico, which is truly astonishing.

In order to maintain order, the cartel efficiently administers justice by swiftly resorting to extreme measures. They have gained notoriety for documenting beheadings and displaying the mutilated bodies of rival gang members in public areas, serving as a deterrent for those who dare to challenge their authority.

Bloods

In Los Angeles, there are two prominent street gangs primarily composed of African Americans known as the Bloods and the Crips. The formation of the Bloods dates back to the late 1960s when Sylvester Scott and Benson Owens, both high school students, were targeted by Crip members in a violent encounter. In response, Scott and Owens took it upon themselves to establish their own gang, aiming to safeguard individuals from the Crips’ aggression. However, over time, the Bloods became entangled in various illicit undertakings beyond their initial objective.

In 1972, tensions escalated when the Crips committed a murder against a rival gang member, reaching a critical point. In response, the smaller gangs decided to set aside their disputes and unite, leading to the formal establishment of the Bloods. Despite being outnumbered by the Crips, the Bloods resorted to increasing violence as a means to assert their dominance on the streets.

The Bloods do not have a designated leader; instead, the various sets within the gang are governed by members who have been involved for longer periods of time. Although the majority of Bloods are located on the West Coast, their activities extend throughout the United States. They are deeply involved in the drug trade and are known to act ruthlessly, displaying no hesitation when it comes to taking lives.

Solntsevskaya Bratva

According to Fortune, the most prominent Russian gang operates as a highly efficient business, generating approximately $8.5 billion in annual revenue. Sergei Mikhailov founded the Solntsevskaya Bratva in the late 1980s, and their influence grew significantly following the collapse of the Soviet Union. It is widely suspected that they have connections with government officials and enjoy protection from Russian authorities, allowing them to conduct their operations discreetly.

The Solntsevskaya Bratva is involved in a wide range of illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, extortion, murder, and human smuggling. To conceal their illicit earnings, they operate various legitimate businesses where they launder their money. Their criminal network extends globally, with a particular focus on Europe, including the United Kingdom.

Latin Kings

The Latin Kings cannot be overlooked when discussing the top 10 most dangerous gangs globally. Originating in Chicago, Illinois in 1954, this Hispanic and Latino street gang holds the title for being the largest in the world. Initially established with the goal of ensuring the safety of Puerto Ricans against attacks, the Latin Kings have since expanded their reach to various locations worldwide. While drug trafficking serves as their primary source of revenue, the gang has also engaged in activities such as murder, extortion, kidnapping, and robbery.

The Latin Kings embody a strong sense of organization, characterized by a well-defined hierarchical structure and a strict code of conduct that all members are required to abide by. Operating under their own Manifesto, they have established their authority through ruthless tactics, often eliminating rival gangs to amass power and influence. Crossing paths with the Latin Kings guarantees encountering their unrelenting violence, as they offer no mercy to those who oppose them.

Sun Yee On

The largest Triad organization globally is Sun Yee On, boasting a membership estimated between 30,000 to 60,000 individuals worldwide. Founded by Heung Chin in 1919, this violent group initially relied on counterfeiting and gambling as their primary sources of income. However, it didn’t take long before Sun Yee On delved into more severe criminal endeavors.

The Sun Yee On engages in various illegal activities such as prostitution, sex trafficking, people smuggling, narcotics, and extortion. On the other hand, the Tridas, while occasionally involved in shootouts, typically opt for using meat cleavers as their preferred weapon for delivering punishment. Internal conflicts and clashes with rival gangs are a regular occurrence, often employing tactics like drive-by shootings and fire bombings.

La Cosa Nostra

For more than two centuries, the Sicilian Mafia, also referred to as the La Cosa Nostra, has established itself as a dominant criminal organization globally. Originating from Sicily, Italy, Cosa Nostra, meaning “our thing” in translation, has extended its influence to various parts of the world, with North America being a significant hub.

During the early 1900s, The Godfather: Part II sheds light on the influx of foreign travelers who migrated to the United States. While the majority sought a fresh start and were diligent individuals, some among them belonged to the mafia and established their operations in major cities like New York and Chicago.

In contrast to numerous gangs featured here, the Cosa Nostra distinguishes itself by adhering to a code of honor. Recognizing that violence is detrimental to their operations, they solely employ it as a last resort. Although some may perceive this as a sign of weakness, the Cosa Nostra displays sheer brutality when compelled to retaliate.

Over the years, they have left a grim path of deceased individuals behind them, with the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, orchestrated by Al Capone, being the most prominent incident. In recent times, close to 40 mafia assassinations have been verified, showcasing the insatiable appetite for violence within the Cosa Nostra.

Crips

The Crips, initially founded by Raymond Washington and Stanley “Tookie” Williams, have emerged as a prominent gang in the United States. With a vast membership, estimated to range between 30,000 and 35,000 individuals, they engage in a range of criminal activities such as homicides, thefts, targeted killings, and narcotics trafficking. Members of this gang proudly display their affiliation by wearing exclusively blue attire, solidifying their identity within the community.

Like the Bloods, this gang predominantly consists of African American males in their teens or early twenties. They frequently engage in acts of violence and maintain a significant presence on the streets of Los Angeles. It is estimated that there are over 800 Crips factions scattered throughout the United States, with the gang embracing and glorifying their propensity for violence.

Los Zetas

If you’re seeking information about the world’s most dangerous gangs, Los Zetas should be at the top of your list. This ruthless Mexican organization derives satisfaction from engaging in violent acts. Los Zetas regularly carry out beheadings and torture as part of their routine, and they show no remorse for killing innocent bystanders who happen to obstruct their path.

Los Zetas, established by ex-Mexican Army personnel, emerged as formidable adversaries to the Cosa Nostra, vying for dominance in the highly profitable American narcotics industry. Despite their relatively short existence of approximately 25 years, the extent of Los Zetas’ influence is unnerving. Notorious for their ability to corrupt politicians, local law enforcement, and even certain American officials, they hold an alarming level of control.

Los Zetas generate their primary source of income from drug trafficking. However, they also engage in various illicit activities such as sex trafficking, extortion schemes, kidnappings, and illegal arms trade to bolster their financial gains. This nefarious group exhibits a disturbing duality, as they are known to perpetrate brutal acts such as massacring families in the morning while hypocritically attending church services in the evening.

18th Street Gang

Contrary to the strict membership requirements of numerous Latin gangs, the 18th Street Gang welcomes individuals of Latin or Hispanic descent, which has contributed to its rapid growth. Consequently, it has emerged as one of the largest and most perilous gangs globally. Notably, the Bloods, the Crips, and MS-13 stand as their most formidable adversaries.

Every day, it is believed that an individual residing in the Los Angeles County area falls victim to assault or robbery by a member of the notorious 18th Street Gang. Their notoriety stems from their alarmingly high kill count, which surpasses that of any other gang in the LA region, rendering them exceptionally perilous. A significant number of the top-ranking individuals associated with the 18th Street Gang currently reside behind bars, yet continue to orchestrate operations from within prison walls.

When caught, numerous members are repatriated to Central America, where they inevitably become involved in prison gangs. Resembling the Cosa Nostra, the 18th Street Gang strictly adheres to a set of guidelines. However, this does not prevent them from engaging in ruthless activities such as murder, tormenting their enemies, and actively participating in kidnapping, extortion, prostitution, drug trafficking, and various other illicit endeavors.

Aryan Brotherhood

Although the Aryan Brotherhood may not possess the same level of economic power as certain gangs mentioned here, they are an exceptionally hazardous group that one should avoid provoking. These individuals, who adhere to white supremacist beliefs, can be readily identified by their tattoos exhibiting Nazi symbols and hateful rhetoric. Similar to numerous gangs, their illicit activities involve drug trafficking, prostitution, and authorized acts of violence.

The Aryan Brotherhood, although relatively small in numbers within the American prison system, holds the dubious distinction of being responsible for the highest number of deaths among all gangs. Their influence extends across numerous prisons throughout the country, commanding formidable respect and fear. Their primary expertise lies in the realm of murder and they wield significant influence over the illicit drug trade within correctional facilities. It is worth noting that a significant portion of their present members no longer adhere to radical extremist ideologies. In fact, they frequently engage in business dealings with Latin gangs, the mafia, and even the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.

Yamaguchi-Gumi

With over 100 years of existence, the Yamaguchi-Gumi stands as Japan’s largest Yakuza gang and the world’s most affluent. Its influence knows no bounds, despite having a relatively small membership of approximately 8,500 individuals. Like other notorious criminal organizations, the Yamaguchi-Gumi engages in a wide range of illicit activities including extortion, arms and drug trafficking, bribery, gambling, and involvement in the sex industry.

Not widely known is the fact that this formidable Yakuza syndicate also extends its influence into real estate, the stock market, and the adult entertainment industry online. Operating discreetly, they strive to avoid unnecessary attention, yet their tattoo-adorned bodies make them hard to overlook. Having firmly established a presence in Japan, they persist as a powerful entity, discreetly manipulating political affairs behind the scenes.