Ecuador President Daniel Noboa declared his country “at war” with drug gangs on Wednesday, following a dramatic escalation of violence that saw prison guards held hostage, gunmen hijack a live TV broadcast, and explosions rock multiple cities.
The crisis began earlier this week when more than 130 prison guards and staff were taken hostage by drug gangs. This followed the reported escape of Adolfo Macias, leader of the notorious Los Choneros gang, from prison over the weekend.
With Ecuador seemingly on the brink, Noboa took decisive action. On Tuesday, he labeled 22 gangs as terrorist organizations, effectively making them military targets. He also hardened a previously declared 60-day state of emergency, authorizing increased military involvement and stricter curfews.
“We are at war and we cannot cede in the face of these terrorist groups,” Noboa declared on radio station Canela Radio, reiterating his pledge to tackle the burgeoning security crisis that has plagued Ecuador for months. He further estimated that as many as 20,000 gang members operate within the country’s borders.
The capital Quito and the major port city Guayaquil bore the brunt of the public anxiety. Businesses shuttered, schools closed, and streets lay quieter than usual as residents grappled with the unprecedented situation.
Adding to the chaos, balaclava-clad gunmen briefly took over live programming at the TC television station, highlighting the brazenness and reach of the gangs. Authorities assured the public that every effort is being made to secure the release of the hostage prison personnel.
Noboa’s tough stance and military declaration mark a significant escalation in the government’s fight against drug trafficking and gang violence. However, the success of this strategy and the ultimate fate of the hostages remain uncertain. This dramatic turn of events has thrust Ecuador into the international spotlight, raising concerns about the stability of the Andean nation and the potential for further violence in the face of such a powerful enemy.
