Femicide investigations in Ecuador

In Ecuador, separate investigations are underway regarding the deaths of two women, both being treated as suspected femicides.

In Quito, the death of Monica Paulina Luzuriaga Velasco, an employee of the Ministry of Education, is being investigated by the Specialized Unit on Gender Violence. Luzuriaga was reported missing on July 27, 2026, after leaving work, and her body was discovered the following day in a northern hostel. Her husband noted she had been facing a hostile work environment and significant workload prior to her disappearance.

In Montañita, authorities are investigating the death of Polish activist Monika Silva. Although initial reports suggested suicide, forensic evidence indicated the death was caused by external factors. Two months after her body was found in June 2026, the remains have stayed in a morgue at the Santa Elena Forensic Center. Human rights organizations are monitoring the case, which remains under judicial reserve as investigators determine if the motive was political or personal.