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Results for “organized crime”Clear
Armed forces, police, and intelligence services deployed to Puerto Bolívar in El Oro province for a major operation against criminal structures controlling the port. Defense Minister Loffredo says groups are using the port to ship drugs and extort fishermen.
Prosecutors are expanding the high-profile 'Goleada' money laundering case against Guayaquil Mayor Aquiles Álvarez to include his wife, mother, and two brothers — bringing the total number of defendants to 17.
President Noboa meets VP Vance this week to discuss security, migration, and trade. Ecuador is also seeking a civilian nuclear energy agreement with the US — a first.
Interior Minister Reimberg announced the largest single-day operation since the curfew began May 3. Nine provinces remain under nightly restrictions through May 18.
A four-month investigation culminated in Operación Forseti-Finisterra — 11 arrested including the gang's hit squad leader, firearms and drugs seized, and a criminal network dismantled.
After months of escalating tariffs, Ecuador will reduce duties on Colombian imports from 100% to 75%. Cosmetics, medicines, plastics, and automotive parts are the primary categories affected.
Interior Minister Reimberg told AFP that organized crime groups have launched roughly 600 drone attempts at El Encuentro prison since it opened. The government says it will build as many mega-prisons as needed.
A young woman was abducted in Urdesa after boarding what appeared to be a legitimate ride-share vehicle. Three attackers forced her to unlock her banking apps via facial recognition, drained over $1,000, and demanded $500 more for her release.
The government handed over 230 new patrol vehicles in Machala this week, bringing the 2026 total to 420. The $21.3 million purchase was funded by private-sector contributions under Ecuador's security law.
Ecuador's National Assembly approved a report (79-56-6) confirming organized crime has infiltrated municipal traffic agencies, weaponizing vehicle registration systems for 'legalizing criminal logistics.' Recommended reform: centralize registration under the national ANT.
National Police executed Operation Apolo 19 in Quito's Quitumbe district on April 17, arresting 30 people across Guamaní, Turubamba, Chillogallo, La Ecuatoriana, and Las Cuadras. 53 officers participated. Seizures included 1 firearm, 20 bladed weapons, 14 detonators, 58 rounds of ammunition, 1.5 kg of cocaine, and 11 stolen vehicles.
At a high-level meeting in Quito, Ecuador formally asked Paraguay to classify Los Choneros, Los Lobos, Los Tiguerones, Chone Killers, and Latin Kings as terrorist organizations. Paraguay's response was non-conclusive. A Paraguayan presidential visit is scheduled for July, with a follow-up coordination meeting in Asunción on September 2.
