Ecuador Announces New Curfew for Five Coastal Provinces in November Amidst Ongoing Security Operations

President Daniel Noboa has announced a new curfew set to be implemented in five coastal provinces of Ecuador. The measure, confirmed by Interior Minister John Reimberg on October 15, 2026, will affect Guayas, Manabí, Los Ríos, El Oro, and Esmeraldas. Esmeraldas is a new addition to the list of provinces under curfew compared to the previous restriction.

The curfew is scheduled to be in effect from November 1 to 10, 2026. Minister Reimberg indicated that this period of restricted mobility and free transit will facilitate important operations aimed at combating crime and weakening criminal structures. This aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to address insecurity in the region.

This upcoming curfew will be applied under similar conditions to the three previous curfews implemented this year, which also restricted freedom of transit. The most recent prior curfew was from September 17 to 30, from 00:00 to 05:00. President Noboa highlighted that the last curfew saw a 40% reduction in crimes and that recent weeks have recorded the lowest homicide figures of the year, suggesting a perceived effectiveness of such measures.

Notably, the new curfew period coincides with a significant national holiday, encompassing the independence festivities of Cuenca and All Souls' Day. This timing may impact travel plans for both residents and visitors during what is typically a period of increased internal tourism.

In related security developments, the extradition of Daniel Salcedo and Ronald Herrera to the United States is scheduled for October 29, 2026. Additionally, Roberto Alvarez, known as alias Gerente and a leader of the criminal group Comandos de Frontera, is also on the list of individuals slated for extradition to the U.S. These extraditions are part of broader efforts to dismantle organized crime networks.

Guayas, Manabí, Los Ríos, and El Oro have been under successive states of exception due to insecurity attributed to disputes between criminal gangs. The inclusion of Esmeraldas in this new curfew underscores the government's focus on expanding security operations across the coastal region.

What This Means for Expats

Expats residing in or planning to travel to the coastal provinces of Guayas, Manabí, Los Ríos, El Oro, and Esmeraldas between November 1 and 10, 2026, should be aware of the upcoming curfew. While specific hours have not yet been detailed, previous curfews have typically involved nighttime restrictions on mobility. It is advisable to monitor official government announcements for precise timings and any exemptions that may apply. This measure will restrict freedom of transit during the specified hours, meaning individuals will be required to remain indoors.

Travel plans during the national holiday period, particularly to or through these coastal provinces, may be affected. Expats should anticipate potential disruptions to transportation and services during curfew hours. It is prudent to complete essential errands and travel outside of the curfew times. The government's stated aim is to enhance security, and while these measures can be inconvenient, they are part of a national strategy to combat crime. Staying informed through official channels and local news is crucial for navigating these temporary restrictions.

Sources: eluniverso.com; primicias.ec; primicias.ec.

Image: existing site image, illustrative.