Ecuador Police Crush Organized Crime in Nationwide Operations

The National Police of Ecuador carried out 824 operations across the country between 15 and 21 June 2026, capturing 381 suspects and dismantling 52 criminal cells, including groups such as Los Choneros, Los Lobos and Latin King. The raids seized 144 firearms, more than two tonnes of illicit substances, 36,748 USD in cash, 143 stolen vehicles and large quantities of cocaine precursors, significantly weakening the financial and operational capacity of organized crime.

In a separate operation in Chone, Manabí, police rescued a kidnapped couple and arrested four suspects after intercepting a stolen vehicle used in two abductions on 23 June 2026. The suspects, who have prior weapons offenses, were found with a 9 mm pistol, ammunition, and personal items belonging to the victims. Police also recovered three trucks and a jeep.

These coordinated actions demonstrate a focused effort by Ecuadorian authorities to disrupt violent crime networks and protect public safety.