Latacunga authorities permanently close illegal bar following underage drinking raid

Authorities in Latacunga, Ecuador, have permanently closed a clandestine establishment in the Loma Grande sector of the Eloy Alfaro parish. The decision follows an inter-institutional operation involving the Cotopaxi Police Intendancy, the Municipal Justice Directorate, and the National Police to combat the illegal sale of alcohol to minors.

During the intervention, officials identified approximately 20 youths at the location, some of whom were wearing school uniforms. While most individuals fled before identification, several adolescents were taken into custody by DINAPEN to facilitate contact with their families.

Némesis Bastidas, the Cotopaxi Police Intendancy official, confirmed the establishment lacked proper land-use and operating permits and had a history of previous closures. The authorities noted that the site was selling artisanal liquor and that the permanent closure is intended to protect the rights and integrity of minors in the region.