Quito authorities shut down clandestine spa operating as a house of prostitution

The Agencia Metropolitana de Control (AMC) closed a residence in the La Y neighborhood of north Quito that was presented as a spa but functioned as a clandestine house of prostitution. Advertised through instant‑messaging apps as offering tantric massages priced between $20 and $80, investigators found evidence of sexual encounters after the massages.

The operation is part of a broader crackdown: in the first half of 2026 the AMC reported 21 closures of similar illicit venues, accounting for 75 % of all such actions recorded in 2025. Supervising official Gustavo Chiriboga noted that owners of Category III establishments face penalties of up to 15 unified basic salaries and fines exceeding $7,000.

Authorities said the closures aim to enforce municipal regulations, protect public safety, and maintain residential tranquillity.