TEGUCIGALPA: At least 25 people were killed in two separate violent attacks in Honduras as authorities intensify a nationwide crackdown on organized crime and drug trafficking groups.

The deadliest assault occurred in the Trujillo area of Colón department, where 19 people were shot dead in a region affected by gang conflicts linked to palm plantation control and narcotics trafficking routes. In another incident near the Guatemala border in Omoa, five police officers and one civilian were killed during a clash between anti-drug forces and suspected traffickers.

The attacks came shortly after Honduras approved new security reforms allowing greater military involvement in public security operations and opening the possibility of classifying gangs and drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Authorities believe the violence is closely tied to drug trafficking networks operating in northern Honduras.