In an illuminating interview, journalist Germán de los Santos, known for his works on narco-violence in Rosario, Argentina, speaks with fellow journalist Hugo Alconada Mon about a grim reality: many children and adolescents are being recruited as hired killers in the drug trade. De los Santos, who has authored books focusing on the city's notorious gangs, sheds light on the troubling trend where young individuals are not only involved in violent crimes but often meet tragic ends themselves. According to De los Santos, a significant number of these young hitmen are eventually killed, underscoring the brutal cycle of violence permeating the region.

The discussion also touches upon the broader implications of this phenomenon, particularly the contentious debate surrounding the age of criminal responsibility in Argentina. As drug-related violence escalates, some policymakers have proposed lowering the age of criminal accountability, suggesting that younger offenders should face harsher penalties. However, De los Santos warns that such measures may not effectively address the root causes of the issue and could exacerbate the plight of vulnerable youth caught in the crossfire of organized crime.

Ultimately, the conversation brings to light the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat drug trafficking and support at-risk youth in Argentina, rather than solely punishing them for actions driven by desperation and coercion. This exchange serves as a stark reminder of the socio-economic factors that contribute to the cycle of violence, compelling society to reflect on the moral and ethical responsibilities towards its youth in such perilous environments.