Quito authorities rescue minor and uncover illegal activities during citywide operations

Authorities in Quito conducted large-scale control operations between August 14 and 15, 2026, across several sectors including Quitumbe, La Delicia, and Eugenio Espejo. During the inspections of 51 commercial establishments, officials rescued a minor who was found exposed to the cold inside a laundry pit at a hostel.

Beyond the rescue, the operations uncovered various legal irregularities. In one hostel, authorities discovered 31 identity cards being held by management as collateral for unpaid lodging debts. Inspections of 14 barbershops led to the seizure of knives and toy pistols. Law enforcement also confiscated 222 grams of controlled substances, 82 liters of alcohol, and 76 packs of contraband cigarettes, resulting in one arrest for drug possession.

The Metropolitan Control Agency (AMC) and security forces closed several businesses, including a liquor store, a hair salon, a billiard hall, and a tolerance center found housing seven undocumented individuals. Additional sanctions were issued for operating without proper licenses, violating tourism regulations, and consuming alcohol in public spaces.