Ecuadorian forces kill high-value drug trafficker in joint operation

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced a major security operation conducted by the Ecuadorian Armed Forces in coordination with the U.S. Southern Command. The operation resulted in the death of a high-value target known as ‘alias Charlie’ in Manta, along with two members of his security detail.

Authorities identified ‘alias Charlie’ as a key logistical and financial operator for international drug trafficking networks. According to Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo, the individual had ties to the Ecuadorian criminal group Los Choneros, the Colombian-linked Frente Oliver Sinisterra, and the Mexican Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

In related security developments, an eight-month investigation involving the Ecuadorian National Police, the DEA, and the U.S. Southern Command led to the arrest of over 30 people in the provinces of Guayas, Los Ríos, and El Oro. This network was allegedly linked to the CJNG and involved the transport of drugs from Colombia through Ecuador.

During a meeting in New York parallel to the UN General Assembly, President Noboa emphasized Ecuador's role in the ‘Shield of the Americas’ initiative. He advocated for increased international cooperation to combat transnational organized crime, while maintaining that Ecuadorian forces must retain leadership in all domestic security operations.