THE death toll from suspected gangster attacks on Guatemalan police rose to 10 on Monday, as civilians saw heavier security in the streets after Congress approved President Bernardo Arevalo’s emergency declaration.

Among the rights that the declaration limits are freedom of action and demonstrations.

It also allows police to arrest people without a judicial order if they are suspected gang members.

The violence started on Saturday when inmates seized control of three prisons in alleged co-ordinated riots, taking 43 guards hostage.

The gangs were demanding privileges for their members and leaders, according to authorities.

Shortly after police liberated one prison Sunday morning, suspected gang members attacked police across the capital.

In a ceremony on Monday, where flag-draped coffins sat in the Interior Ministry, President Arevalo said: “Today it pains me to give each one of the families this flag, a symbol of the nation that will not forget the sacrifice and commitment of their police fallen in the fulfilment of their duty.”