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Ecuador security forces intensify operations against organized crime
Ecuador is experiencing a surge in security operations targeting organized crime. In Guayaquil, military forces seized $250,000 in cash and ammunition from a vehicle linked to the Comandos de la Frontera group. In El Empalme, an operation against the Los Lobos gang resulted in the seizure of over 1,200 rounds of ammunition, several firearms, and a drone.
In Quito, authorities conducted the Apolo 43 operation, leading to 37 arrests and the seizure of weapons and narcotics across multiple sectors. Additionally, military intelligence led to the apprehension of individuals linked to Los Lobos in San Martín de Porras.
On a regional level, Ecuador and Peru are strengthening military cooperation to combat illegal mining, smuggling, and drug trafficking along their shared border. Meanwhile, national drug seizure figures show significant totals, with over 160 tons of alkaloids intercepted so far this year. In Quito, municipal authorities also shuttered two unlicensed establishments during recent inspections.
Entities
Comandos de la Frontera · Ecuador · Ecuadorian Army · Ejército Ecuatoriano · Fernando Silva Arias · Guayaquil · Guayas · Iquitos · Los Lobos · Los Águilas · National Police of Ecuador · Peru
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The two nations have established a strategic alliance to target illegal mining, which is identified as a major criminal economy financing drug and arms trafficking. www.elcomercio.com · www.larepublica.ec
- [● 2 SOURCES] Ecuador and Peru are working to strengthen military coordination to combat illegal mining, smuggling, and drug trafficking along their shared border. www.elcomercio.com · www.larepublica.ec
- [● 2 SOURCES] The cooperation follows the 2025-2026 Binational Work Plan, which includes intelligence sharing and mirror operations. www.elcomercio.com · www.larepublica.ec