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Corruption investigations in Ecuador

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2026-10-25 17:10 UTC → 2026-10-25 19:22 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Ecuadorian authorities have initiated multiple investigations into corruption and financial irregularities across different levels of government. In early October, the Autonomous Governments Commission of the National Assembly approved an oversight report targeting 95 local officials, including mayors and prefects, using a “traffic light” methodology to identify unjustified wealth increases. The report categorized 41 officials in the “red” category and 54 in the “orange” category, recommending investigations by the State Attorney General's Office and audits by the Comptroller General. By mid-October, law enforcement launched “Operation MINEDEC,” targeting a corruption network within the Ministry of Education, Deporte y Cultura. This operation investigated allegations of extortion and influence peddling, resulting in the detention of several employees. Concurrently, the Prosecutor's Office opened “Caso Vqnas” to investigate the Quito Municipality regarding alleged illegal political financing involving Mayor Pabel Muñoz and the Revolución Ciudadana (RC) party. Allegations suggest municipal employees were pressured to provide illegal contributions, referred to as “vaccines,” to fund political campaigns. On October 21, 2026, the investigation into Quito’s public works expanded with the “Asfalto de Oro” (Golden Asphalt) case. Quito City Councilor Michael Aulestia filed formal complaints alleging embezzlement and money laundering involving approximately USD 64 million in contracts managed by the Metropolitan Public Company for Mobility and Public Works (EPMMOP). These developments further link political figures, including Mayor Pabel Muñoz and former Revolución Ciudadana president Luisa González, to broader inquiries regarding irregular campaign financing and asset laundering. Additionally, “Operation White Code” was executed at the Ambato General Teaching Hospital to investigate a network accused of demanding illegal payments for health jobs and contracts. On October 23, authorities confirmed that prosecutors are investigating a network accused of soliciting bribes between USD 3,000 and USD 7,000 to illegally grant job positions, bypassing merit-based processes.

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