Ecuador President extends state of exception for 30 days

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has extended the state of exception for an additional 30 days due to grave internal commotion. This extension, formalized through Executive Decree 472, applies to ten provinces—Guayas, Manabí, Santa Elena, Los Ríos, El Oro, Pichincha, Esmeraldas, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Sucumbíos, and Azuay—as well as the cantons of La Maná, Las Naves, and La Troncal.

In the province of Azuay, intelligence reports indicate significant activity from the organized armed group ‘Los Lobos,’ particularly in the Cuenca North and South districts and the Camilo Ponce Enríquez canton. Authorities have also identified the presence of the ‘Sao Box’ group, which is reportedly attempting to expand its influence in Cuenca, leading to increased risks of violent confrontations and homicides.

The decree maintains several extraordinary powers for security forces, including the ability to conduct searches without a prior judicial warrant, intercept communications, and requisition goods necessary for security operations. The Armed Forces will continue to work alongside the National Police. Notably, this extension does not impose a curfew or restrictions on citizen mobility.