# Law enforcement and prison misconduct in Ecuador and Peru

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/law-enforcement-and-prison-misconduct-in-ecuador-and-peru
> Updated: 2026-09-30T01:48:48.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

In Arequipa, Peru, security agents from the National Penitentiary Institute (INPE) seized more than S/40,000 in cash from an inmate, Abdon Chicaña Samayani, during a routine inspection of a minimum-security pavilion. The money was discovered inside a backpack. Authorities also confiscated prohibited items, including sharp objects, lighters, and pipes. The origin of the funds is currently under investigation by the Prosecutor's Office and the National Police.

Separately, in Quito, Ecuador, a second corporal from the police force is facing preventive detention after allegedly stealing approximately $5,990 during a crime scene investigation. The incident occurred on September 25, 2026, when officers responded to a residence where a 68-year-old man had been found dead. According to prosecutors, the officer admitted to taking the cash and hiding it under the driver's seat of the patrol vehicle. A direct procedure trial has been scheduled for October 14.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-30: Police officer and inmate face charges following cash seizures in Ecuador and Peru

Authorities in Ecuador and Peru have seized significant amounts of cash in separate incidents involving a police officer in Quito and an inmate in an Arequipa prison.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/police-officer-and-inmate-face-charges-following-cash-seizures-in-ecuador-and-peru

### 2026-09-27: Peru prison authorities intercept cash, phones, and cigarettes

Peruvian prison authorities intercepted cash, a mobile phone, and over 400 cigarettes during smuggling attempts in Arequipa, Lurigancho, and Chiclayo.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/peru-prison-authorities-intercept-cash-phones-and-cigarettes

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Cite as: Law enforcement and prison misconduct in Ecuador and Peru. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/law-enforcement-and-prison-misconduct-in-ecuador-and-peru