Looking for information about infamous gangs? Look no further than our list of the top 10 most notorious gangs in the world. From the Bloods and Crips to the Russian Mafia and Yakuza, these gangs have gained notoriety for their involvement in violent crimes, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. Our guide offers a brief overview of each gang’s history and activities, as well as insight into their impact on society.
Whether you’re a law enforcement agent, a concerned citizen, or simply curious, you’ll find valuable information on these gangs and their lasting influence on the world.
The Dark Side of the Streets: Learn About the Most Infamous Gangs in History

As much as we may think that gangs are just a thing of the past or fictional stories spun into books, movies, or TV series, the fact remains that they still exist and pose a significant threat to our communities. Much like any other criminal group, gangs come in different sizes, shapes, goals, and territories, making the world of gangs complex and unpredictable. From street gangs to prison gangs to drug cartels and outlaw motorcycle gangs, this article seeks to delve deeper into the top 10 most infamous gangs that have caused a ripple effect of crimes, violence, and fear across the world.
MS-13: Also known as Mara Salvatrucha, this gang is arguably the most notorious street gang that originated in Los Angeles but has since spread to other countries. Founded by Salvadoran immigrants in the 1980s, MS-13 has a dual nature of being both a criminal organization and a community support group for Central American immigrants in the US. With an estimated 10,000 members spread across 46 states in the US, MS-13 has been involved in violent crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, murder, and racketeering.
Their signature mark is the MS tattoo on their faces, hands, or backs.
Bloods: The Bloods is a predominantly African-American street gang that was formed in Los Angeles in the 1970s. They are known for their red bandanas or clothing that represents their gang identity.
As rivals of another street gang, the Crips, the Bloods’ primary goal is to protect their territory and engage in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, burglary, and murder. With an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 members nationwide, the Bloods have a hierarchy that is based on sets or subgroups that operate independently of each other.
Crips: The Crips is a street gang that was formed in Los Angeles in the 1960s, and they are known for their blue bandanas or clothing that represents their gang identity.
Unlike the Bloods, the Crips have a single structure and hierarchy that spans across different sets or subgroups that are often identified by their neighborhood or geographical location. With an estimated 30,000 to 35,000 members nationwide, the Crips engage in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and murder, and they are rivals of the Bloods.
Aryan Brotherhood: The Aryan Brotherhood is a white supremacist prison gang that was formed in San Quentin State Prison in California in the 1960s.
They are known for their Nazi-inspired tattoos, and their primary goal is to protect white inmates in prisons across the US. With an estimated 15,000 members, the Aryan Brotherhood has been involved in organized crimes, including drug trafficking, extortion, robbery, and murder. They have a strict code of conduct and a hierarchy that is based on loyalty, violence, and respect.
Mexican Mafia: Also known as La Eme, the Mexican Mafia is a prison gang that originated in California in the 1950s, and they are known for their tattoos that represent their gang identity. Their primary goal is to control the drug and prostitution trade in prisons and other correctional facilities. With an estimated 400 to 500 members, the Mexican Mafia has been involved in violent crimes such as murder, racketeering, extortion, and drug trafficking.
Hells Angels: The Hells Angels is an outlaw motorcycle gang that was formed in California in the 1940s. They are known for their leather jackets with the club’s logo or the “death head,” which represents their gang identity. With an estimated 2,500 members in the US, the Hells Angels have a worldwide presence and are involved in organized crimes such as drug trafficking, extortion, and murder.
They have a strict code of conduct and a hierarchy that is based on loyalty, violence, and respect.
Triads: The Triads is a Chinese organized crime syndicate that is believed to have originated in China in the 18th century. They are known for their distinct tattoos that represent their gang identity.
With an estimated 100,000 members worldwide, the Triads are involved in organized crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, and murder. They have a strict code of conduct based on loyalty, respect, and discipline.
Yakuza: The Yakuza is a Japanese organized crime syndicate that originated in Japan in the 17th century.
They are known for their distinct tattoos that represent their gang identity, and their primary goal is to control the underworld in Japan and protect their interests. With an estimated 50,000 members in Japan, the Yakuza is involved in organized crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, and murder. They have a strict code of conduct based on loyalty, respect, and honor.
Black Guerrilla Family: The Black Guerrilla Family is a black prison gang that was formed in California in the 1960s. They are known for their black guerilla tattoos that represent their gang identity, and their primary goal is to protect black inmates in prisons across the US. With an estimated 5,000 members, the Black Guerrilla Family has been involved in organized crimes such as drug trafficking, robbery, and murder.
They have a strict code of conduct and a hierarchy that is based on loyalty, violence, and respect.
Nuestra Familia: The Nuestra Familia is a Hispanic prison gang that was formed in California in the 1960s. They are known for their tattoos that represent their gang identity, and their primary goal is to protect Hispanic inmates in prisons across the US.
With an estimated 15,000 members, the Nuestra Familia has been involved in organized crimes such as drug trafficking, extortion, robbery, and murder. They have a strict code of conduct and a hierarchy that is based on loyalty, violence, and respect.
In conclusion, the world of gangs is vast, and the gangs that have made it to this list are just the tip of the iceberg.
These criminal organizations have affected not only the communities they operate in but also the criminal justice system as a whole. The need for intervention and prevention programs, as well as resources to help former gang members reintegrate into society, is crucial in breaking the cycle of violence and criminal activities associated with gangs. It is essential to recognize the complex nature of gangs and not stigmatize entire communities or ethnic groups based on the actions of a few.
Only by working together can we curb the influence and power of these infamous gangs and create a safer and more just society for all.
Who is the top No 1 gangster?

The title of “Top No 1 Gangster” is subjective and varies depending on several factors such as location, crime type, and influence. There is no one definitive answer to who holds this position as different gangs and criminals may be ranked differently by law enforcement agencies, media, and other organizations. However, some names that are often associated with top gangsters in history can shed light on the power dynamics and criminal trends.
One of the most notorious gangsters of the 20th century was Al Capone, who controlled Chicago’s illegal liquor trade during Prohibition and became a symbol of organized crime. Capone’s empire was built on violence, corruption, and bribery, making him a major target for law enforcement. Despite being imprisoned for tax evasion, Capone’s name remains synonymous with the image of a powerful and ruthless gangster.
Other legendary gangsters include John Gotti, the “Teflon Don” of the Gambino crime family, who operated in New York City and gained notoriety for his flamboyant lifestyle and lethal tactics. Gotti was eventually convicted of murder and racketeering charges and died in prison. Another infamous figure is Pablo Escobar, the Colombian drug lord who became one of the wealthiest and most feared men in the world due to his cocaine empire.
Escobar’s legacy is marked by violence, social and political corruption, and a lasting impact on the drug trade.
While these individuals are just a few examples of top gangsters, the nature of organized crime is constantly changing, and new players are emerging all the time. The rise of technology and globalization has made it easier for criminal networks to operate and expand their reach, making it even harder to identify and apprehend the top gangsters of today.
Ultimately, the title of “Top No 1 Gangster” is a mythic designation that captures the public’s fascination but obscures the true costs and consequences of organized crime.
Conclusion
Get to know about the most infamous gangs that have created terror in various parts of the world. From the Mexican drug cartels to the notorious Yakuza in Japan, this post will give you an insight into the history, activities, and impact of these gangs on society. Check out this post to stay informed and aware of the world of organized crime.