Pelileo, Ecuador community detains armed robbers and burns vehicles

In the Catimbo community of the García Moreno parish near Pelileo, Ecuador, an armed group entered a house around 23:00 on 4 June intending to rob the occupants. Residents activated a local alarm system, closed access roads and mobilized to block the suspects’ escape. Police coordinated with the community and, after a pursuit that lasted into the early morning, four individuals were arrested.

During the search, authorities found two vehicles linked to the robbery, both containing ammunition. Angered residents set the vehicles alight, destroying them completely. Community members expressed frustration over chronic insecurity, with resident José Bautista saying, “We are tired of this insecurity. We will not allow them to keep robbing and harming our people.” Police continue investigations to determine any additional involvement.