Crisis in Ecuador: Unprecedented Violence and State of Emergency

Ecuador is currently experiencing a profound and troubling wave of violence, highlighted by several critical incidents. The situation escalated dramatically with the storming of a public TV studio in Guayaquil by masked gunmen during a live broadcast, alongside a series of bomb detonations throughout the country. This alarming spate of violence coincides with the disappearance of Adolfo Macías Villamar, known as Fito, a notorious gang leader of the Choneros.

The tension in the country has led to the implementation of a 60-day state of emergency, declared by President Daniel Noboa. This move responds to recent jail riots, prison breaks, and increasing acts of violence, which authorities attribute to criminal gangs. President Noboa has emphasized the need to “neutralize” these gangs, acknowledging the existence of an “internal armed conflict” within Ecuador.

The violence seems to be a direct reaction to President Noboa’s strategy to establish a new high-security prison for gang leaders. In a bid to alleviate the crisis, President Noboa announced plans to deport foreign prisoners, particularly Colombians, to reduce the overcrowding in prisons.

The United Nations and the United States have expressed serious concerns about the situation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s spokesperson communicated deep alarm about the deteriorating conditions and its disruptive impact on Ecuadorians. Similarly, the White House, through National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, condemned the attacks and pledged support for Ecuador’s security and prosperity.

The aftermath of the attacks has left cities like Guayaquil in a state of shock, resembling a city recovering from a nightmare. The assault on the state television channel TC, where an anchor was held at gunpoint on live television, has been particularly shocking. This incident, among others, has led to a significant police response, with 70 arrests since Monday.

The fear and uncertainty have resulted in deserted streets and a sense of unease reminiscent of the Covid pandemic. Schools have shifted to online learning, and China has temporarily closed its embassy and consulates in Ecuador. In Guayaquil, businesses that remain open are doing so with heightened security and caution.

The crisis extends to the country’s prison system, where over 100 prison staff are being held hostage by inmates in various facilities. Additionally, four police officers have been kidnapped, with violence ongoing, particularly in Guayaquil.

This escalation of violence represents a unique and critical challenge for Ecuador, especially for its main port city, Guayaquil. The country has experienced political protests and violence before, but the current situation, with its scale and intensity, is unprecedented. The government’s response, including a nightly curfew, aims to curb the violence and restore order, particularly in the prisons where riots erupted. This situation also presents a significant test for President Noboa’s young administration, coming into power amidst political turbulence marked by the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.