#Gravitas A cocaine haul worth millions of dollars has been found hidden inside a truck in Ecuador, and splashed across the packages was the face of one of football's biggest stars, Erling Haaland.  Ecuadorian anti-narcotics officers seized 469 kilograms of cocaine near the Colombian border after an anonymous tip flagged a suspicious truck travelling along the Pan-American Highway.


Haaland's face misused by gangsters to smuggle Cocaine into Ecuador

Germany's World Cup campaign has suffered a major setback after Ecuador came from behind to claim a dramatic 2-1 victory and secure a place in the knockout stage.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ecuador Knocks Germany Out of the World Cup in New Jersey

The United States has launched a military operation in Ecuador as part of SOUTHCOM’s anti-drug campaign, targeting transnational narcotics networks operating in the region. U.S. forces are working closely with Ecuadorian security agencies to dismantle criminal organizations and disrupt illegal drug trafficking routes. Officials stress that the operation is focused on law enforcement and preventing threats to regional stability, not combat against civilians.

Breaking: U.S. Military Conducts Operation in Ecuador 

A US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent was stopped from entering Ecuador’s consulate in Minneapolis by staff, prompting a formal diplomatic protest to the US Embassy in Quito as anti-immigration operations and tensions continue in the city.


Ecuador: ICE Agent Tried To Enter Minneapolis Consulate |

Colombia has suspended electricity exports to Ecuador and imposed 30% tariffs on 20 Ecuadorian products in retaliation for Ecuador's matching tariffs, escalating a trade dispute blamed on President Daniel Noboa's accusations of inadequate Colombian cooperation against drug trafficking.


Ecuador-Colombia: Bogota Suspends Sales, Targets Ecuador Goods 

An explosion was reported outside Machala Prison, prompting concern and confusion in the community. Families have gathered outside the forensic center in Machala as authorities continue to assess the situation. 


Ecuador: Explosion reported outside Machala prison, 13 inmates dead 

Ecuador: A deadly riot erupted in Machala Prison in southern Ecuador on November 9, 2025, leading to the deaths of at least 31 inmates and injuries to over 30 others, including a police officer. The violence, marked by gunfire and explosions, was triggered by the transfer of inmates to a new maximum-security facility. 

Ecuador: Thousands Protest Ahead of Referendum | Foreign Military Bases To Return To Ecuador?

Ecuador: At least 31 inmates were killed in a deadly riot at Machala Prison in Ecuador’s El Oro province. Authorities reported that 27 prisoners died due to asphyxiation, described as immediate death by suspension, while four others died in a separate violent incident the same day. 

Ecuador: Deadly Riots Rock Ecuadorian Prison | Machala Facility Violence 

Ecuador: Deadly Riots Rocks Ecuadorian Prison, At Least 31 Inmates Killed 

Gen-Z protests are sweeping across the globe, with young activists demanding change on climate, social justice, and economic issues. Meanwhile, Ecuador faces severe disruptions as three weeks of strikes and roadblocks bring parts of the country to a standstill.


Morocco's Gen Z Protesters Return to Streets Calling For End To Corruption

Ecuador: Demonstrators blocked a main road to the city, demanding the return of diesel subsidies.


Ecuador: Tensions rising as people are out on the street against the diesel price rise

Protests and Clashes in Ecuador, President Noboa Declares Emergency 


Ecuador: Protests and clashes in Ecuador, president Noboa declares emergency 

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa Leads March Against Country's Constitutional Court | Race To Power


Jose Adolfo Macias, alias “Fito”, was extradited on Sunday (Jul 20) to the US to face charges including drug trafficking and violent crimes. The leader of the Los Choneros gang was arrested on June 25, six months after he escaped from the Guayaquil prison in Ecuador, where he was serving 34 years for homicide and drug trafficking. Here is what you should know about Fito, the man who went from taxi driver to gang lord.<h2>Fito's arrest from a bunker in Ecuador</h2>In June this year, Fito was taken into custody from an underground bunker, after a 10-hour police-army operation, with no shots fired.The bunker in a Manta house was accessed via a sliding trapdoor in the stone floor. Fito's hideout had air conditioning, bed, fan, fridge, gym and games room.He did not resist arrest and was flown to Guayaquil, where he was transferred to La Roca maximum-security prison before Sunday's extradition.&nbsp;Fito was seen in shorts, a blue T-shirt, and flip flops, escorted by armed officers.<h2>What will Fito face in US after extradition?</h2>Fito, who faces a seven-count US indictment for cocaine distribution, conspiracy and weapons smuggling, agreed to extradition on July 11. In February 2024, the US treasury department sanctioned Los Choneros and Fito for drug trafficking and violent crimes.&nbsp; On Sunday, he became the first Ecuadorian extradited to the US.He landed in New York to face trial in Brooklyn’s federal court.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-violence-series-of-raids-inside-el-salvadors-prison-679191/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-violence-series-of-raids-inside-el-salvadors-prison-679191/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Fito even appeared in a music video in prison, from where he operated his gang</h2>Fito’s influence extended inside the prison, where he was given mobile phones, internet, and even lavish parties.&nbsp; He continued to run Los Choneros from jail and is suspected of ordering the murder of politician Fernando Villavicencio before the 2023 election.Before his escape from prison, Fito appeared in a narcocorrido (traditional Mexican music) video filmed partially inside the jail, with his daughter glorifying his crimes.&nbsp;<h2>Noboa had made it a personal mission to control Fito</h2>Fito's escape from jail in January came just months after Daniel Noboa's election as president in 2023. After Fito's jailbreak, Ecuador witnessed widespread violence.President Noboa declared an internal armed conflict and designated Fito's Los Choneros as well as &nbsp;21 other gangs as terrorist organisations.<h2>Fito's life from petty robbery to organised crime</h2>Fito's full name is José Adolfo Macías Villamar. Born on 30 September 1979 in Manta, Fito was raised in the coastal city of Manabí, a hub for drug operations. He once worked as a taxi driver and mechanic. In 2000, he entered the world of crime, when he was arrested for robbery. By 2011, he faced charges for drug trafficking and organised crime and was lodged in La Roca Prison, serving part of a 34-year sentence for murder and drug-related offences.&nbsp; Despite imprisonment, he assumed leadership of Los Choneros in 2020 after the assassination of Jorge Luis Zambrano.<h2>A drug empire in Latin America</h2>Under Fito, his gang allied with Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel and Colombia’s Gulf Clan, making Ecuador a major cocaine transit hub. More than 70 per cent of global cocaine traffic passed through Ecuador ports.&nbsp; The gang's brutal tactics included decapitations and mutilations of rivals in Ecuador.&nbsp; His January 2024 prison escape had triggered nationwide violence, including riots and a TV station takeover.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The leader of the Los Choneros gang was arrested on June 25, six months after he escaped from the Guayaquil prison in Ecuador, where he was serving 34 years for homicide and drug trafficking. Here is what you should know about Fito, the man who went from taxi driver to gang lord

Jose Adolfo Macias, alias “Fito”, was extradited on Sunday (Jul 20) to the US to face charges including drug trafficking and violent crimes. The leader of the Los Choneros gang was arrested on June 25, six months after he escaped from the Guayaquil prison in Ecuador, where he was serving 34 years for homicide and drug trafficking. Here is what you should know about Fito, the man who went from taxi driver to gang lord. Fito's arrest from a bunker in Ecuador In June this year, Fito was taken into custody from an underground bunker, after a 10-hour police-army operation, with no shots fired. The bunker in a Manta house was accessed via a sliding trapdoor in the stone floor. Fito's hideout had air conditioning, bed, fan, fridge, gym and games room. He did not resist arrest and was flown to Guayaquil, where he was transferred to La Roca maximum-security prison before Sunday's extradition. Fito was seen in shorts, a blue T-shirt, and flip flops, escorted by armed officers. What will Fito face in US after extradition? Fito, who faces a seven-count US indictment for cocaine distribution, conspiracy and weapons smuggling, agreed to extradition on July 11. In February 2024, the US treasury department sanctioned Los Choneros and Fito for drug trafficking and violent crimes. On Sunday, he became the first Ecuadorian extradited to the US. He landed in New York to face trial in Brooklyn’s federal court. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-violence-series-of-raids-inside-el-salvadors-prison-679191/embed Fito even appeared in a music video in prison, from where he operated his gang Fito’s influence extended inside the prison, where he was given mobile phones, internet, and even lavish parties. He continued to run Los Choneros from jail and is suspected of ordering the murder of politician Fernando Villavicencio before the 2023 election. Before his escape from prison, Fito appeared in a narcocorrido (traditional Mexican music) video filmed partially inside the jail, with his daughter glorifying his crimes. Noboa had made it a personal mission to control Fito Fito's escape from jail in January came just months after Daniel Noboa's election as president in 2023. After Fito's jailbreak, Ecuador witnessed widespread violence. President Noboa declared an internal armed conflict and designated Fito's Los Choneros as well as 21 other gangs as terrorist organisations. Fito's life from petty robbery to organised crime Fito's full name is José Adolfo Macías Villamar. Born on 30 September 1979 in Manta, Fito was raised in the coastal city of Manabí, a hub for drug operations. He once worked as a taxi driver and mechanic. In 2000, he entered the world of crime, when he was arrested for robbery. By 2011, he faced charges for drug trafficking and organised crime and was lodged in La Roca Prison, serving part of a 34-year sentence for murder and drug-related offences. Despite imprisonment, he assumed leadership of Los Choneros in 2020 after the assassination of Jorge Luis Zambrano. A drug empire in Latin America Under Fito, his gang allied with Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel and Colombia’s Gulf Clan, making Ecuador a major cocaine transit hub. More than 70 per cent of global cocaine traffic passed through Ecuador ports. The gang's brutal tactics included decapitations and mutilations of rivals in Ecuador. His January 2024 prison escape had triggered nationwide violence, including riots and a TV station takeover.

The leader of the Los Choneros gang was arrested on June 25, six months after he escaped from the Guayaquil prison in Ecuador, where he was serving 34 years for homicide and drug trafficking. Here is what you should know about Fito

From taxi driver to gang lord: Who is Fito, Ecuador's most wanted man extradited to US to face justice?

Ecuador's most wanted man and leader of the Los Choneros gang, Jose Adolfo Macias, was arrested on Wednesday (June 25) , said the country's President Daniel Noboa. Macias, alias ‘Fito’, had escaped in January 2024 from a prison in Guayaquil after receiving a 34-year term for homicide and drug trafficking. His escape triggered a rampage of violence in Ecuador, leading Noboa to declare an internal armed conflict and consider Los Choneros and 21 other gangs operating within the country to be terror organisations.&nbsp;In February 2024, Los Choneros and Macias were sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury for their drug trafficking and violent criminal activities in Ecuador and throughout the continent. Noboa said that Ecuador is proceeding with extradition to the US and has a pending response from American authorities. The police spokesman said no shots were discharged during the 10-hour combined operation by police and the army.&nbsp;A number of officers initially monitored and cordoned off the three-storey house in the Monterrey district of Manta, on the Ecuadorian coast. When they stormed into the building, they found a sliding trapdoor, disguised as part of the stone floor, from which metal stairs led to Fito's subterranean lair.&nbsp;The ‘bunker’ was equipped with air conditioning, bed, fan and a fridge. The house itself had a gym with punching bag and a games room where he could play pool and table football.&nbsp;Fito reportedly put no resistance and was flown to the port city of Guayaquil, home to several of Ecuador's largest prisons. Video of his arrival in Guayaquil showed him dressed in shorts, a T-shirt and flip flops and being escorted by armed security officers to a parked SUV before being moved to the La Roca maximum-security prison.&nbsp;Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa hailed the security authorities for capturing Fito and said that he would be extradited to the US, against which he has been indicted for smuggling cocaine. Fito had escaped from Guayaquil's La Regional prison in January 2024 with at least two guards' assistance, which garnered international media attention.&nbsp;From prison, he coordinated the gang's operations, including drug trafficking and extortion. He is also suspected of having given the instruction to kill politician Fernando Villavicencio, who was shot dead at a campaign rally just days before the 2023 election.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Police in Ecuador have recaptured the country&#39;s most wanted fugitive, drug lord Jose Adolfo Macías. <a href="https://t.co/5lactNIQyg">pic.twitter.com/5lactNIQyg</a>&mdash; Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1938246576339657082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Under Fito's leadership, Los Choneros forged links with Mexico's powerful Sinaloa cartel, an alliance which experts say has led to the gruesome tactics commonly used by Mexican cartels - such as decapitations and mutilations - spreading to Ecuador. Shortly before his prison escape, he also appeared in a narcocorrido - a slick music video in which his daughter glorifies her father's criminal exploits. The video, partly captured within the prison walls, documents him stroking a fighting cockerel and chatting openly to inmates.&nbsp;The escape of the gang leader in 2024 was a setback for Noboa's administration. Ecuador's leader had taken office in November 2023 following his election on a vow to tackle the surging influence of the gangs.&nbsp;On Wednesday (June 25), Noboa said that the arrest of the drug lord was evidence his strategy - which involves introducing legislations granting him broad powers to proclaim an ‘armed internal conflict’, and which allows the police to make searches without a warrant - was paying off.&nbsp;"More [drug lords] will fall, we will regain [control of] the country," he posted on X.

Ecuador most wanted drug lord Fito captured hiding in bunker WATCH

Ecuador's most wanted man and leader of the Los Choneros gang, Jose Adolfo Macias, was arrested on Wednesday (June 25) , said the country's President Daniel Noboa. Macias, alias ‘Fito’, had escaped in January 2024 from a prison in Guayaquil after receiving a 34-year term for homicide and drug trafficking. His escape triggered a rampage of violence in Ecuador, leading Noboa to declare an internal armed conflict and consider Los Choneros and 21 other gangs operating within the country to be terror organisations. In February 2024, Los Choneros and Macias were sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury for their drug trafficking and violent criminal activities in Ecuador and throughout the continent. Noboa said that Ecuador is proceeding with extradition to the US and has a pending response from American authorities. The police spokesman said no shots were discharged during the 10-hour combined operation by police and the army. A number of officers initially monitored and cordoned off the three-storey house in the Monterrey district of Manta, on the Ecuadorian coast. When they stormed into the building, they found a sliding trapdoor, disguised as part of the stone floor, from which metal stairs led to Fito's subterranean lair. The ‘bunker’ was equipped with air conditioning, bed, fan and a fridge. The house itself had a gym with punching bag and a games room where he could play pool and table football. Fito reportedly put no resistance and was flown to the port city of Guayaquil, home to several of Ecuador's largest prisons. Video of his arrival in Guayaquil showed him dressed in shorts, a T-shirt and flip flops and being escorted by armed security officers to a parked SUV before being moved to the La Roca maximum-security prison. Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa hailed the security authorities for capturing Fito and said that he would be extradited to the US, against which he has been indicted for smuggling cocaine. Fito had escaped from Guayaquil's La Regional prison in January 2024 with at least two guards' assistance, which garnered international media attention. From prison, he coordinated the gang's operations, including drug trafficking and extortion. He is also suspected of having given the instruction to kill politician Fernando Villavicencio, who was shot dead at a campaign rally just days before the 2023 election.

Macias, also known as ‘Fito’, escaped from a prison in Guayaquil in January 2024 while serving a 34-year sentence for homicide and narcotics trafficking

Ecuador most wanted drug lord 'Fito' captured hiding in bunker-WATCH

Ecuador has deployed intelligence and counter-terrorism forces to the Amazon region to hunt down guerrillas and combat illegal mining. This move comes amid a surge in violence and crime in the country, with 11 Ecuadorian armed personnel recently killed in an ambush. Watch to know more!

Ecuador's Amazon crackdown: Troops deployed to combat gangs and illegal mining

Ecuador military personnel killed by FARC guerrillas in anti-mining operation near Colombia border, sparking violence and unrest.

Ecuador declares national mourning for 11 soldiers killed in ambush

Ecuador Declares National Mourning For 11 Troops Killed By FARC

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa prepares to take charge amid serious allegations of election fraud and a shocking claim of a plot to assassinate him. While international observers dismiss the fraud accusations, some Latin American nations remain cautious, with Mexico and Colombia yet to recognize his win.

President Noboa faces fraud allegations and death plot claims in Ecuador turmoil

In Ecuador's recent elections, Daniel Noboa secured 50% of the vote, while his opponent, Luisa González, received 44%. The results highlight a close race, reflecting deep political divisions in the country. The outcome sets the stage for a pivotal phase in Ecuador's future leadership.

Incumbent Daniel Noboa wins Ecuador presidential vote, opposition demands recount

Ecuadorians are casting their votes in a closely watched presidential runoff between President Daniel Noboa and leftist challenger Luisa Gonzalez. Noboa, who narrowly led the first round by just 16,000 votes, seeks a full term amid rising drug violence and economic challenges. Both candidates have pledged to restore safety and stabilize Ecuador's struggling economy.

Ecuador votes in high-stakes presidential runoff election 2025

Ecuadorans began voting Sunday in a too-close-to-call presidential election pitting the incumbent, security hawk Daniel Noboa, against a charismatic leftist challenger in a country plagued by drug-related violence.
The 37-year-old president narrowly won February's first round, but not by enough to avoid another duel against a resurgent Luisa Gonzalez, who is bidding to become Ecuador's first woman president. &nbsp;
The election has been dominated by anger over cartel violence that has transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in Latin America to the most deadly.
On the eve of the vote, Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency in the capital Quito and several provinces, underscoring the tense state of affairs. &nbsp;
This once-peaceful Andean nation averaged a killing every hour at the start of the year, as cartels vied for control over cocaine routes that pass through Ecuador's ports.
Noboa, the guitar-strumming son of a billionaire banana magnate, has staked his political fortunes on "iron fist" security policies and snuffing out the gangs.&nbsp;
He has deployed military to the streets, captured drug capos and invited the United States to send special forces.&nbsp;
He frequently dons a bulletproof vest to lead audacious security raids. &nbsp;
In stark contrast, 47-year-old single mother Gonzalez has pitched herself as a political everywoman, born to a humble family and transfixed with improving the lot of poor Ecuadorans.&nbsp;
She may have a growing constituency. Rampant bloodshed has spooked investors and tourists alike, fueling economic malaise and swelling the ranks of Ecuador's poor to 28 percent of the population. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-election-president-noboa-clings-to-narrow-lead-as-runoff-looms-8707915">Ecuador election: President Noboa clings to narrow lead as runoff looms</a>
"We hope that this Sunday, at last things will get better, that they leave us to work in peace and that calm returns," 61-year cafeteria manager Marcelo Salgado told AFP.&nbsp;
<h2>'Born with a problem'</h2>
Ecuador faces two very different paths depending on which candidate wins.&nbsp;
A Noboa win would likely see him double down on hardline security policies and nurturing a budding bromance with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
If Gonzalez wins, it would signal a sharp shift to the left and a likely cooling of Ecuador's relations with the United States.&nbsp;
Gonzalez is closely allied with ex-president Rafael Correa, who delighted in lobbing barbs at Washington during his decade in office.&nbsp;
He now lives in exile in Belgium, avoiding a corruption conviction he claims is politically motivated. He remains a deeply polarizing figure in his homeland.&nbsp;
In February's first round of voting less than a percentage point, or 17,000 votes, separated Noboa and Gonzalez. &nbsp;
On Sunday, with more than a dozen also-ran candidates shorn from the ballot, hundreds of thousands of votes are up for grabs.&nbsp;
Gonzalez has the backing of powerful indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who won half a million votes in the first round. But it is unclear if his voters will remain united. &nbsp;
About 13.7 million Ecuadorans are obliged to vote, with ballots being cast between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm (1200 and 2200 GMT).&nbsp;
Both candidates on Thursday held final campaign events in Guayaquil, the country's largest city, economic capital and the epicenter of drug violence. &nbsp;
Gonzalez made a late play for women voters, proposing low-interest loans of up to $40,000 for single mothers. &nbsp;
During Noboa's time in power, she said, "violence, poverty and unemployment has hit us women hardest."&nbsp;
Noboa presented himself as an outsider and the candidate of change. &nbsp;
"The country does not deserve to be mistreated by the same old politicians," he said, targeting his rival's ties with former president Correa. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Some analysts fear a tight result could spark claims of fraud and lead to a government with a weak mandate. &nbsp;
"If the difference is very small, the government will be born with a problem: It has almost half the country against it, and that weighs heavily, making it more difficult to govern," said Simon Pachano of the social sciences institute FLACSO.&nbsp;

World | The election has been dominated by anger over cartel violence that has transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in Latin America to the most deadly.

Ecuadorans began voting Sunday in a too-close-to-call presidential election pitting the incumbent, security hawk Daniel Noboa, against a charismatic leftist challenger in a country plagued by drug-related violence. The 37-year-old president narrowly won February's first round, but not by enough to avoid another duel against a resurgent Luisa Gonzalez, who is bidding to become Ecuador's first woman president. The election has been dominated by anger over cartel violence that has transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in Latin America to the most deadly. On the eve of the vote, Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency in the capital Quito and several provinces, underscoring the tense state of affairs. This once-peaceful Andean nation averaged a killing every hour at the start of the year, as cartels vied for control over cocaine routes that pass through Ecuador's ports. Noboa, the guitar-strumming son of a billionaire banana magnate, has staked his political fortunes on "iron fist" security policies and snuffing out the gangs. He has deployed military to the streets, captured drug capos and invited the United States to send special forces. He frequently dons a bulletproof vest to lead audacious security raids. In stark contrast, 47-year-old single mother Gonzalez has pitched herself as a political everywoman, born to a humble family and transfixed with improving the lot of poor Ecuadorans. She may have a growing constituency. Rampant bloodshed has spooked investors and tourists alike, fueling economic malaise and swelling the ranks of Ecuador's poor to 28 percent of the population. Also read | Ecuador election: President Noboa clings to narrow lead as runoff looms "We hope that this Sunday, at last things will get better, that they leave us to work in peace and that calm returns," 61-year cafeteria manager Marcelo Salgado told AFP. 'Born with a problem' Ecuador faces two very different paths depending on which candidate wins. A Noboa win would likely see him double down on hardline security policies and nurturing a budding bromance with US President Donald Trump. If Gonzalez wins, it would signal a sharp shift to the left and a likely cooling of Ecuador's relations with the United States. Gonzalez is closely allied with ex-president Rafael Correa, who delighted in lobbing barbs at Washington during his decade in office. He now lives in exile in Belgium, avoiding a corruption conviction he claims is politically motivated. He remains a deeply polarizing figure in his homeland. In February's first round of voting less than a percentage point, or 17,000 votes, separated Noboa and Gonzalez. On Sunday, with more than a dozen also-ran candidates shorn from the ballot, hundreds of thousands of votes are up for grabs. Gonzalez has the backing of powerful indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who won half a million votes in the first round. But it is unclear if his voters will remain united. About 13.7 million Ecuadorans are obliged to vote, with ballots being cast between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm (1200 and 2200 GMT). Both candidates on Thursday held final campaign events in Guayaquil, the country's largest city, economic capital and the epicenter of drug violence. Gonzalez made a late play for women voters, proposing low-interest loans of up to $40,000 for single mothers. During Noboa's time in power, she said, "violence, poverty and unemployment has hit us women hardest." Noboa presented himself as an outsider and the candidate of change. "The country does not deserve to be mistreated by the same old politicians," he said, targeting his rival's ties with former president Correa. Some analysts fear a tight result could spark claims of fraud and lead to a government with a weak mandate. "If the difference is very small, the government will be born with a problem: It has almost half the country against it, and that weighs heavily, making it more difficult to govern," said Simon Pachano of the social sciences institute FLACSO.

Ecuador votes in razor-close presidential election

Ecuador heads to the polls on April 13 for a decisive presidential runoff between incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist candidate Luisa González. As Noboa makes his final pitch, meeting university students in Quito, both candidates gear up for a crucial showdown. Watch for more details!

Ecuador elections: Incumbent Prez Daniel Noboa to face leftist Luisa Gonzalez

Ecuador prepares for high-stakes Presidential runoff between Noboa and Gonzalez

As Ecuador prepares for its upcoming presidential election on the 9th of February, campaigns have officially concluded. A mandatory silence period has taken effect, and voters are all set to participate in the polls to elect both a president and national legislators, nearly 18 months after the previous presidential elections. Watch in for more details!

Ecuadorians set to vote in April's presidential election

A cleanup operation is underway in southern Ecuador after heavy rains caused the rivers to burst their banks. The country's National Secretariat of Risk Management has warned of more heavy rains to come.

Floods in Ecuador: Cleanup underway after floods; weather agency warns of more heavy rain

Ecuador has intensified its crackdown on drug cartels as violent clashes in Guayaquil leave at least 22 people dead. Police and military forces have launched multiple raids, seizing weapons and arresting suspects. Armed forces continue operations in mountainous regions, while the president offers pardons to security personnel. Stay tuned for updates on Ecuador’s battle against organized crime.

Ecuador cracks down on drug cartels amid deadly violence

Guayaquil is facing its worst rains in five years, leading to severe flooding and an emergency declaration. Coastal provinces in Ecuador are struggling with rising rivers and devastating damage. Authorities report the wettest February in 45 years, with eight provinces now under emergency status.

Guayaquil hit by worst rains in five years, emergency declared

Ecuador increased the number of provinces declared in an emergency from six to eight due to the severe rainy season affecting its territory. The season has left nine dead and nearly 1,100 people displaced since January.

Floods in Ecuador force evacuations: 9 dead, 1100 displaced

Ecuador's presidential election is heading for a run-off as no candidate secured a majority. Daniel Noboa and Luisa González are set for a fierce contest in the next round.

Ecuador’s presidential race heads to a crucial run-off

Incumbent President Daniel Noboa on Monday clutched onto a razor-thin lead in violence-hit Ecuador's election, after a stronger-than-expected leftist challenger looked set to force a second-round run-off. 
With more than 90 per cent of the ballots counted, Noboa had 44.3 per cent and rival Luisa Gonzalez 43.8 per cent, official results showed.
Gonzalez, a 47-year-old lawyer and single mother of two, told elated supporters in Quito that they had achieved a "great victory" by forcing what she called a "statistical tie". 
"We have won," she said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-justification-eu-awaits-details-on-trumps-tariff-plan-vows-to-respond-if-needed-8707908">'No justification': EU awaits details on Trump&rsquo;s tariff plan, vows to respond if needed</a>
The telegenic lawmaker had trailed heavily in pre-election surveys. 
Some exit polls had even predicted that Noboa would garner the 50 per cent of votes needed to avoid a head-to-head contest in April.
But the election was seen by many as a referendum on the country's stalled economy and on Noboa's hardline security response in the face of record rates of murder, kidnapping and extortion.
In just a few years, cartels vying for control of Pacific ports and lucrative cocaine trading routes to Europe and Asia have transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in the world to one of the most dangerous.&nbsp; &nbsp;
During his 15 months in office Noboa has declared a state of emergency, deployed the army to the streets and gathered extraordinary executive powers to curb cartel violence.
He deployed heavily armed soldiers to polling stations across the country on election day, and the land borders with Colombia and Peru were closed.
Both Noboa and Gonzalez were shadowed at public events by a phalanx of special forces, hoping to avoid a repeat of the 2023 election, when a leading candidate was assassinated.
"We're only human. Of course, you feel afraid," candidate Gonzalez told AFP from her childhood home on the eve of the vote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-ready-to-talk-putin-if-us-europe-assure-they-wont-abandon-ukraine-8707810">'Give security guarantees': Zelensky ready to talk if US, Europe assure they &lsquo;won't abandon&rsquo; Ukraine</a>
But this time round the only election-related incidents were about 20 people cited for breaking a strict three-day alcohol ban. 
More than ten million votes have been counted so far, but it could be some hours before the full tally is known.
Still, Noboa's supporters were in a jubilant mood, lighting fireworks in Quito and Guayaquil, the country's two largest cities. 
"We came to support the president, we want him to support us and change the country," said 52-year-old secretary Myriam Medrano on the streets of the capital.
Gonzalez's political mentor -- polarizing exiled ex-president Rafael Correa -- was also bullish about the prospects of victory.
"We are going to PASS Noboa," he said in a social media post.
<h2>'A bigger challenge'</h2>
At 37, Noboa is one of the world's youngest leaders.
He has bet his political fortunes on a slick social media campaign that underscores his youth and vigor and a hardline approach to tackling crime.
On the eve of the vote he posted a video of himself in a crisp white T-shirt and sneakers, strumming an acoustic guitar and crooning along in English -- a striking contrast to his "mano dura," or iron fist, security policies. 
Human rights groups believe the aggressive use of the armed forces has led to abuses, including the murder of four boys whose charred bodies were recently found near an army base.
"Ecuador is in a very difficult moment, I think in the worst crisis since we returned to democracy," said Leonardo Laso, a political analyst, referring to a period of deep crisis almost half a century ago.
<h2>'Dark outlook' </h2>
The unrest has scared away tourists and investors alike, hitting an economy that likely entered a recession last year.
Noboa has been forced to turn to the International Monetary Fund to build a $4 billion fiscal war chest.
Easing fears that she may scrap that deal if elected, Gonzalez on Saturday told AFP that the IMF was "welcome" to help, so long as it does not insist on policies that hit working families.
Ecuador is also girding for the return of thousands of migrants who are expected to be deported by the administration of US President Donald Trump -- meaning a drop in remittances, which total about $6 billion a year. 
Gonzalez told AFP she wanted "appropriate" relations with Trump, while claiming Ecuador under Noboa "did not defend its citizens" against US mistreatment.
"I will always demand respect for our citizens. They cannot deport our brothers as if they were criminals, with chains on their legs and arms," she said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: With more than 90 per cent of the ballots counted in the Ecuador election, Noboa had polled 44.3 per cent and rival Luisa Gonzalez 43.8 per cent, official results showed.

Incumbent President Daniel Noboa on Monday clutched onto a razor-thin lead in violence-hit Ecuador's election, after a stronger-than-expected leftist challenger looked set to force a second-round run-off. With more than 90 per cent of the ballots counted, Noboa had 44.3 per cent and rival Luisa Gonzalez 43.8 per cent, official results showed. Gonzalez, a 47-year-old lawyer and single mother of two, told elated supporters in Quito that they had achieved a "great victory" by forcing what she called a "statistical tie". "We have won," she said. Also read: 'No justification': EU awaits details on Trump’s tariff plan, vows to respond if needed The telegenic lawmaker had trailed heavily in pre-election surveys. Some exit polls had even predicted that Noboa would garner the 50 per cent of votes needed to avoid a head-to-head contest in April. But the election was seen by many as a referendum on the country's stalled economy and on Noboa's hardline security response in the face of record rates of murder, kidnapping and extortion. In just a few years, cartels vying for control of Pacific ports and lucrative cocaine trading routes to Europe and Asia have transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in the world to one of the most dangerous. During his 15 months in office Noboa has declared a state of emergency, deployed the army to the streets and gathered extraordinary executive powers to curb cartel violence. He deployed heavily armed soldiers to polling stations across the country on election day, and the land borders with Colombia and Peru were closed. Both Noboa and Gonzalez were shadowed at public events by a phalanx of special forces, hoping to avoid a repeat of the 2023 election, when a leading candidate was assassinated. "We're only human. Of course, you feel afraid," candidate Gonzalez told AFP from her childhood home on the eve of the vote. Also read: 'Give security guarantees': Zelensky ready to talk if US, Europe assure they ‘won't abandon’ Ukraine But this time round the only election-related incidents were about 20 people cited for breaking a strict three-day alcohol ban. More than ten million votes have been counted so far, but it could be some hours before the full tally is known. Still, Noboa's supporters were in a jubilant mood, lighting fireworks in Quito and Guayaquil, the country's two largest cities. "We came to support the president, we want him to support us and change the country," said 52-year-old secretary Myriam Medrano on the streets of the capital. Gonzalez's political mentor -- polarizing exiled ex-president Rafael Correa -- was also bullish about the prospects of victory. "We are going to PASS Noboa," he said in a social media post. 'A bigger challenge' At 37, Noboa is one of the world's youngest leaders. He has bet his political fortunes on a slick social media campaign that underscores his youth and vigor and a hardline approach to tackling crime. On the eve of the vote he posted a video of himself in a crisp white T-shirt and sneakers, strumming an acoustic guitar and crooning along in English -- a striking contrast to his "mano dura," or iron fist, security policies. Human rights groups believe the aggressive use of the armed forces has led to abuses, including the murder of four boys whose charred bodies were recently found near an army base. "Ecuador is in a very difficult moment, I think in the worst crisis since we returned to democracy," said Leonardo Laso, a political analyst, referring to a period of deep crisis almost half a century ago. 'Dark outlook' The unrest has scared away tourists and investors alike, hitting an economy that likely entered a recession last year. Noboa has been forced to turn to the International Monetary Fund to build a $4 billion fiscal war chest. Easing fears that she may scrap that deal if elected, Gonzalez on Saturday told AFP that the IMF was "welcome" to help, so long as it does not insist on policies that hit working families. Ecuador is also girding for the return of thousands of migrants who are expected to be deported by the administration of US President Donald Trump -- meaning a drop in remittances, which total about $6 billion a year. Gonzalez told AFP she wanted "appropriate" relations with Trump, while claiming Ecuador under Noboa "did not defend its citizens" against US mistreatment. "I will always demand respect for our citizens. They cannot deport our brothers as if they were criminals, with chains on their legs and arms," she said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ecuador election: President Noboa clings to narrow lead as runoff looms

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