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Colombia and Ecuador authorities conduct major security and narcotics operations
Security operations across Colombia and Ecuador have resulted in significant seizures of narcotics, weapons, and illegal goods. In Colombia, President Abelardo de la Espriella reported 18,750 arrests since August 7, 2026, alongside the seizure of 1,940 firearms and the eradication of over 1,700 hectares of coca crops. Additionally, authorities dismantled a criminal network in Antioquia and Cundinamarca responsible for distributing explosive components, including 17,500 detonators.
In Ecuador, law enforcement intercepted a 200-kilogram cocaine shipment valued at $6 million, which was concealed in a banana container destined for Morocco. Other major operations in Ecuador included the recovery of nearly 60 military-grade grenades linked to the Los Lobos gang in Daule, and the seizure of 16 rifles and 5,000 rounds of ammunition in Guayas. In Quito, municipal and police controls led to the closure of several businesses and the seizure of over 100 mobile phones of unverified origin, as well as large quantities of contraband cigarettes.
Entities
Abelardo De La Espriella · Clan del Golfo · Colombia · Daule · Ecuador · Ecuadorian Armed Forces · Guayas · Los Lobos · National Intelligence Center
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The seized cocaine in Ecuador is estimated to be worth approximately $6 million. lemaroc360.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Nearly 60 military-grade grenades linked to the Los Lobos gang were recovered in Daule, Ecuador. www.elcomercio.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Colombia has recorded 18,750 arrests since August 7, 2026. www.boyacadigital.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Six people were arrested in Colombia for distributing explosive manufacturing supplies, including 17,500 detonators. boyaca7dias.com.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Colombian authorities seized 1,940 firearms and eradicated 1,746.5 hectares of coca crops since August 7, 2026. www.boyacadigital.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Authorities seized 16 rifles, 90 magazines, and approximately 5,000 rounds of ammunition from a gang in Guayas. noticiasaldiayalahora.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Ecuadorian police intercepted 200 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a banana container destined for Tangier, Morocco. lemaroc360.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] More than 100 mobile phones were seized and eight businesses were closed in Quito due to unverified origins. quenoticias.com