Summary
Gangs rely on a range of tactics and weapons to protect
themselves/members, turf, status and profit-making
enterprises. Threats, intimidation, assaults and homicides
are widely reported. In carrying out these criminal activities,
gang members will utilize knives, machetes, hammers, etc.
Firearms are considered a weapon of choice for many
gangs in the US and South America. In Canada, the use of
firearms among youth is generally becoming more
prevalent and is especially acute in larger urban areas such
as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.