Quito authorities close businesses and seize contraband

Authorities in Quito conducted security operations across the Calderón and La Delicia districts between August 7 and August 8, resulting in the closure of several businesses and the seizure of illegal goods.

During the interventions, which involved 125 officials from the Metropolitan Control Agency, the National Police, and the Armed Forces, authorities seized 385 packs of contraband cigarettes and 200 liters of alcohol lacking sanitary registration.

Several establishments, including liquor stores, barbershops, and discotheques, were closed for various irregularities. These included operating without proper permits, misuse of economic activity licenses, and hosting undocumented individuals. Ten additional businesses were flagged for using front businesses, such as mechanics or liquor stores, to mask their actual operations.