New balance of the Armed Forces of Ecuador: 59 terrorists apprehended and 1 civil servant released

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The Armed Forces of Ecuador have released a new balance of their recent operations, reporting that 59 terrorists have been apprehended and 1 civil servant has been released. They have also promised to continue working to ensure the safe return of the 170 hostages currently held in six prisons across the country.

The Police were able to verify the status of 75 Penitentiary Security Agents and are keeping the situation under control in the Machala prison, where the death of one inmate was confirmed. These maneuvers were ordered by President Daniel Noboa, in compliance with an Executive Decree that declared 22 gangs as terrorists, and were carried out in multiple regions of the country.

In one raid in Ciudad Verde, in Santo Domingo, police officers found a significant cache of weapons and arrested three terrorists from a criminal organization. Meanwhile, in Portoviejo, Manabí, five terrorists from the Los Lobos gang were arrested with a number of weapons and illegal substances in their possession. Several other raids across different regions led to the arrest of additional terrorists and the seizure of weapons and drugs.

The Ecuadorian government has also received support from the United States, with the announcement that an official delegation, including the head of the Southern Command, General Laura Richardson, will be sent to Ecuador to collaborate on developing an effective strategy to combat transnational criminal organizations. In addition, prison reforms and intelligence sharing will be prioritized as part of the collaboration.

President Noboa has unveiled plans to construct two new prisons, similar to those in Mexico and El Salvador, which have been successful in combating gang warfare. These prisons, to be located in Pastaza and Santa Elena provinces, will feature advanced technology and security measures to prevent communication and escape among inmates.

The measures taken by the Armed Forces of Ecuador, with support from international partners, reflect the government’s determination to address the ongoing challenges posed by criminal organizations and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.