Ep 15. World's Most Dangerous Gang

In season 2, episode 15 of National Geographic Explorer, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the world's most dangerous gang. The episode begins by highlighting the existence and growth of these gangs worldwide and the severe problems they pose for society.

We see footage of numerous gangs from around the globe that operate in a variety of ways - some of them are organized in a traditional sense, whereas others are more loosely affiliated. Regardless of their structure, the gangs often share a common purpose of seeking power and money through narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, racketeering, and other forbidden criminal activities.

The program investigates the gang activities and looks closely into their inner workings. While some gangs are territorial and possess a clear hierarchy with someone at the top, others are less organized and brutally violent, aiming to gain power through chaos and terror.

The show also looks into the factors that contribute to a young person's joining a gang, citing poverty, lack of education, unemployment, addiction, and neglect, etc. Additionally, gangs provide a sense of belonging, loyalty, and protection to many who feel alienated from society.

The example of a Mexican gang is given to describe how a gang operates. Their extortion activities range from a small business owner to a large corporation or government. They also kidnap people and run drugs. They offer services to criminal organizations in other countries, including the U.S. Some members rise up ranks in the gang and become like soldiers. While others create rival gangs and start a clash.

The cameras of the National Geographic Explorer team delve deep into gang areas, sometimes risking their lives. The team also interviews members of gangs, both active and reformed, and even family members of gang members. These first-hand accounts give viewers an insight into the cruel world of gang culture.

The episode also features law enforcement officials and social workers who strive to fight gang activities using various measures like undercover operations, community intervention programs, and outreach initiatives to prevent adolescents' recruitment into a gang.

After showcasing the scope and reach of these gangs, the documentary highlights how marginalized communities have come together to fight back and reclaim their neighbourhoods. Several city programs are working to provide underprivileged youth with education, job opportunities, and mentorships to dissuade them from joining gangs.

In conclusion, National Geographic Explorer's season 2, episode 15, is an eye-opener, showcasing the extreme danger of gangs across the world. The show takes us into the heart of the gang culture and provides us with concrete examples of the ramifications of the gang's activities. It highlights that gang culture is a complex issue and that removing them will take a fundamental overhaul of the socio-economic conditions that give rise to the problem. The show gives us a glimmer of hope that communities worldwide are taking the first steps to put an end to this culture of crime and violence.