Ecuadorian and U.S. forces kill high-value drug trafficker ‘alias Charlie’

Ecuadorian authorities, in collaboration with the United States Southern Command and the DEA, conducted a major operation against international drug trafficking networks, resulting in the death of a high-value target known as ‘alias Charlie’. President Daniel Noboa described the individual as a logistical and financial operator for international networks, specifically linking the group to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

The operation, which involved over 320 police officers and approximately 50 U.S. military personnel, spanned several provinces including Guayas and El Oro. Authorities reported more than thirty arrests during the raids in locations such as Guayaquil, Daule, and Machala.

While some officials previously linked the target to the local gang Los Choneros, Interior Minister John Reimberg clarified that this specific organization maintained a direct relationship with the CJNG. The group was reportedly involved in the collection, intermediation, and transport of large quantities of drugs originating from Colombia for maritime shipment. The deceased target and two of his security personnel were killed during the encounter.