Ecuador announces an ‘internal armed conflict’ after armed individuals seize control of a live television broadcast.
Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, has declared an “internal armed conflict” in response to a series of violent incidents orchestrated by criminal groups accused of spreading extreme violence in the nation. The declaration followed a disturbing event where armed individuals interrupted a live television broadcast in Guayaquil, leading to a tense situation at TC Television’s studio.
During the takeover, assailants forced the state-owned network’s staff onto the studio floor, with shots and yelling audible in the background. Fortunately, Ecuador’s police later reported that all armed individuals were arrested, and the evacuated staff and hostages were unharmed. César Zapata, General Commander of the National Police, disclosed the recovery of firearms, grenades, and explosive material, with 13 people apprehended, emphasizing that the perpetrators would face justice for their acts of terrorism.
TC Television anchor Jorge Rendon described the incident as an “extremely violent attack,” stating that the assailants aimed to control the studio’s message. While the exact number and nature of injuries remain unconfirmed, the situation has instilled fear among Ecuadorians, leading to chaotic scenes in the streets.
The recent turmoil stems from President Noboa’s declaration of a nationwide state of emergency following the escape of high-profile gang leader Adolfo “Fito” Macias from a Guayaquil prison. The subsequent days witnessed explosions, police kidnappings, and prison disturbances, resulting in multiple casualties, including eight deaths in Guayaquil and two police officers killed in Nobol.
Former President Rafael Correa characterized the situation as a “real nightmare,” attributing it to the systematic erosion of the rule of law over the past seven years. In response, President Noboa enacted a 60-day state of emergency, implementing a curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. to maintain public order.
The armed forces, mobilized under the emergency decree, are instructed to neutralize identified terrorist groups, marking a significant test for President Noboa, who pledged to address rising crime during his electoral campaign. The escalating violence in Ecuador is predominantly fueled by rival criminal organizations vying for control of drug trafficking routes, leading to brutal displays of violence in streets and prisons.
Amid the unrest, neighboring countries like Colombia and Peru expressed concern and support for Ecuador. The United States also offered assistance to restore order. Ecuador’s penitentiary service reported disturbances in prisons, with several inmates, including alleged gang leader Fabricio Colon Pico, escaping. Efforts are underway to locate Macias, leader of Los Choneros, a feared gang linked to drug trafficking.
The situation remains fluid, with Ecuador’s National Assembly convening an emergency meeting to address the crisis and devise concrete actions to restore public peace.
