Guido Perugachi ordered into preventive detention in Ecuador

A judge in Imbabura, Ecuador, has ordered preventive detention for Guido Perugachi, president of the National Confederation of Peasant, Indigenous, Black, and Montubio Organizations of Ecuador (Fenocin). The order follows allegations that Perugachi instigated the paralysis of public services during protests in October 2025.

The demonstrations were held in opposition to the removal of diesel and gasoline subsidies. Judge Mery Maza Puma issued a warrant for Perugachi’s location and capture, citing evidence that he pressured protesters to close commercial establishments through threats and disrupted access to essential services, including health, education, and water.

Prosecutor Washington Burbano presented evidence indicating that the month-long protests resulted in significant economic impact, including an estimated loss of $3,156,661 in uncollected toll fees.