Ecuadorian military captures leaders of Los Lobos and Los Choneros

Ecuadorian military and intelligence forces have captured high-ranking members of major criminal organizations during recent security operations.

In Naranjal, Guayas, the military detained Hermes Ponce, known as ‘La Muerte,’ a Venezuelan national allegedly linked to the Los Lobos gang. Authorities reported finding videos on his phone depicting extreme violence, including the dismemberment of victims. Ponce is accused of involvement in kidnapping, extortion, and assassination.

In a separate operation in Machala, El Oro, forces apprehended an individual known as ‘Negro Félix,’ identified as a leader of the Los Choneros gang. During this arrest, authorities seized ammunition, explosives, and controlled substances.

Additionally, in Balzar, the Armed Forces captured three suspected members of Los Choneros, including an individual known as ‘Anuel,’ following an attack on two Ecuadorian women. Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo confirmed the arrests, noting the suspects are linked to hits, extortion, and illegal arms trafficking.