Ecuadorian police arrest suspects in extortion and copper theft cases

Ecuadorian police have conducted two separate operations targeting extortion and theft. In Playas, Guayas, the Anti-Kidnapping and Extortion Unit (Unase) apprehended two adults and one minor suspected of demanding $5,000 from a victim. The suspects allegedly threatened personal attacks against the victim or their staff and logistics. During the arrest, authorities seized a firearm, ammunition, five mobile devices, and a notebook. One adult suspect has a prior record for extortion, while another has a record for illegal weapons trafficking. Both adults are in preventive detention.

In Ambato, Tungurahua, police arrested three Colombian nationals suspected of stealing copper cable from the electrical company EEASA. The suspects reportedly tampered with eight inspection wells, affecting approximately 300 meters of copper cable valued at roughly $5,960. Authorities recovered $2,530 in cash, several mobile phones, and a white Chevrolet pickup truck used during the crime. The suspects had reportedly performed illegal connections to prevent service interruptions while stealing the material.