Ecuador police operation “Apolo 26” arrests 36 in Quito

On 4 June 2026 the National Police of Ecuador carried out a coordinated raid called “Apolo 26” in Quito’s districts of Quitumbe, La Delicia and Calderón, as well as the Ciudadela El Ejército sector. The operation, part of the 3D strategy to weaken and dismantle violent criminal groups, resulted in the arrest of 19 people and the detention of 17 others, totalling 36 individuals.

Police seized one firearm, 63 knives, about 26.35 grams of controlled substances, cash, five stolen vehicles and two motorcycles, while three vehicles and 33 motorcycles were retained for verification. Among those captured were two suspects identified as “Chino” and “Pantera”, alleged members of the gang “Los Lobos” linked to robberies and armed assaults.

Authorities said the raid dealt a direct blow to the logistical and financial capabilities of organized crime in the capital and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to public safety.