The Ecuadorian government has launched a major operation in the prison complex in Guayaquil, aiming to restore order after a week of rioting in jails across the country. This operation is part of President Daniel Noboa’s crackdown on gangs and organized crime, as the government declares war on criminal organizations. The recent move comes after the escape of gang leader Adolfo MacÃas Villamar, also known as “Fito,” from the same prison complex.
Images show a significant number of soldiers and police officers storming the main prison in Guayaquil, as they attempt to take back control of the penitentiary. This prison is considered the stronghold of drug gangs in the city. President Noboa’s government’s actions follow the murder of a prosecutor, César Suárez, who was investigating organized crime in Ecuador. The prosecutor was killed on his way to a hearing, highlighting the dangers associated with combating criminal organizations in the country.
The escape of gang leader Fito earlier this year sparked a wave of violence within the prison system and on the streets of Ecuador. Fito’s cell was discovered empty when the police were looking to move him to a higher-security area within the same compound. The prison guards have been charged with assisting in his escape, and the government admitted being tipped off about the impending transfer. This incident resulted in riots in several prisons across the country and saw prison guards being held hostage, while explosive devices were set off in various cities.
To address the escalating gang violence, President Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency in Ecuador, considering the situation as an “internal armed conflict” with drug gangs. He ordered the military to neutralize 22 armed groups, redefining them as terrorist organizations. The president, during his visit to Guayaquil, emphasized his determination to combat these terrorist groups and restore order. However, the escape of Fito and the subsequent violence are significant setbacks for President Noboa, who became Ecuador’s youngest democratically elected leader in November last year.
The violence in Ecuador has had far-reaching effects, with the president highlighting that it affects not only his country but also the whole world. The murder of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, who reported receiving death threats from Fito, demonstrates the extent to which these criminal organizations pose a threat to the political stability of Ecuador. The recent attack on a local television station by masked gunmen further showcases the alarming reach of these gangs.
The government’s operation in Guayaquil is a response to the escalating gang violence and represents a significant effort to restore order and combat organized crime. However, it also highlights the challenges associated with dismantling criminal networks. The government must ensure the safety and security of its citizens, prison guards, and law enforcement officers, while also addressing the root causes of gang violence. The successful implementation of long-term solutions, such as social and economic reforms, is crucial to prevent the resurgence of criminal organizations in the future.
The crackdown on gangs and organized crime in Ecuador is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires coordinated efforts from various sectors of society. It is not only a matter of enforcing the law but also addressing social inequalities, providing opportunities for marginalized communities, and strengthening the justice system. The government, civil society, and international partners must work together to tackle the underlying causes of gang violence and create a safer and more secure environment for all Ecuadorians.
