LOS CHONEROS
Rubio says US is working with allies to counter drugs but will 'still blow up ships if need be'
US Secretary Marco Rubio detailed a new US strategy for combating drug trafficking in Latin American waters. The United States will now prioritize joint operations with allied nations, respecting their laws. This approach follows a year of unilateral strikes against alleged narcotraffickers in international waters. Ecuador has become a key partner, with joint efforts targeting criminal organizations.
Fito captured: The shocking crimes and net worth of Ecuador’s most wanted man, José Adolfo Macias
José Adolfo Macías, the leader of the Los Choneros gang, has been apprehended after escaping prison in January, triggering a state of emergency in Ecuador. President Noboa aims to extradite Macías to the United States, where he faces federal charges related to drugs and weapons.
Ecuador president says country is at war with drug gangs
Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa declares his country "at war" with drug gangs holding prison guards hostage. He names 22 gangs as terrorist organizations and makes them military targets. The surge in violence includes gunmen taking over a live TV broadcast and explosions in multiple cities. With a state of emergency declared and plans for high-security prisons, the government aims to address the security crisis linked to rising drug trafficking. The president pledges to deport foreign prisoners, particularly Colombians, to reduce prison populations. The U.S. offers aid, condemning criminal attacks by armed groups.
What we know about 'Fito,' Ecuador's notorious drug lord and his gang that stormed TV station during live show
After a gang of armed criminals stormed a TV station in the Latin American country of Ecuador, they ordered the employees to lie down on the ground. A panic-stricken woman could be heard pleading, "Don't shoot, please don't shoot." Know the high-octane drama blow by blow.
- Go To Page 1
Gunmen in Ecuador storm TV studio in wave of violence
Attackers carrying rifles and grenades stormed the studio of TC television in the port city of Guayaquil as a woman was heard amid gunshots pleading: "Don't shoot, please don't shoot." The intruders forced terrified crew onto the ground, and a person could be heard screaming in apparent pain as the studio lights went off but the live broadcast continued. "Please, they came in to kill us. God don't let this happen. The criminals are on air," a TC employee told AFP in a WhatsApp message.
Has Ecuador's most infamous drug lord 'Fito' escaped from jail?
The jail authorities planned to move Fito, or Jose Adolfo Macias, to La Roca. But they could not find him. Confirming it, the police have said that the search for Fito is taking place within the prison. Who is Fito and why is he so important?
How Ecuador became one of the most violent countries in Latin America
The assassination Wednesday of centrist candidate Fernando Villavicencio -- up to then second in polls ahead of the August 20 presidential election -- has shaken the country to its core.
Load More
