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The militarization of Puerto Bolívar has surfaced the human cost: at least 300 families forcibly displaced, criminal group Los Lobos occupying up to 500 homes, and the terminal tied to 10.8 tons — 11.24% — of drugs seized nationally. Over 1,000 troops are searching 1,642 homes.
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.
Over 2,000 people detained in 9 days. The penalty for violating curfew is up to 3 years in prison. Here's what every resident needs to know about the enforcement, exceptions, and your rights.
From May 3-10, security forces conducted 221 raids across nine provinces. Over 400 people were identified as members of criminal organizations.
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.
Ecuador is investing USD 3 million in a new 24,000 m² Naval Station at Posorja, deploying coast guard, marine infantry, and naval aviation across the approaches to Guayaquil's export ports. Operational by 2027, possibly late 2026.
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.
A 16-person fuel trafficking ring operating across six provinces since October 2024 has been dismantled. Three active-duty military members, five police officers, and eight civilians were detained. A judge has ordered preventive detention for 15 of them on charges tied to hydrocarbon diversion and support for criminal organizations.
President Noboa said Ecuador would welcome US military troops to fight organized crime, provided they operate under Ecuadorian Armed Forces command. Joint operations are already underway, including Pacific naval exercises with the USS Nimitz and a border strike against Comandos de la Frontera.
