Once a bastion of peace in Latin America, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of unchecked, mushrooming influence of transnational Narco-gangs, who use its ports to ship cocaine to the United States and Europe. It suffered a recent surge in violence, triggered by the 7th January prison escape of one of the country's most powerful Narco bosses, Jose Adolfo Macias, better known by the alias "Fito".

Ecuadorian prosecutor, investigating narcos, shot dead

Ecuador is reeling from a fresh wave of violence. The nation is launching a military crackdown on gangs. Criminal groups took more than 100 prison staff hostage. Armed men dramatically interrupted a live TV broadcast. What is happening in Ecuador? Watch this video to find out.

Why is there unrest in Ecuador?

Ecuadorean prosecutor Cesar Suarez, who focused on pursuing organized trans-national crime in Guayas province, one of the country's most violent areas and the site of an on-air attack on a television station last week, has been killed, the attorney general said on Wednesday.

Suarez, who had been placed in charge of investigating the television station attack, was traveling to a court hearing when he was killed, the council of the judiciary said in a statement condemning the attack.

The killing had the hallmarks of an assassination, police said in a statement, adding that the victim sustained a number of gunshot wounds.

Ecuador has suffered a recent burst of violence, including the gunmen interrupting the broadcast at TC Television in Guayaquil, the hostage-taking of more than 200 prison staff, explosions in several cities and the kidnapping of police officers.

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In response President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency, including a nighttime curfew, and designated 22 criminal groups as terrorist organizations.

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"The criminals, the terrorists, will not hold back our commitment to Ecuadorean society," attorney general Diana Salazar said in a video posted to social media. "We call on the forces of order to guarantee the security of those who are carrying out their duties."

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Suarez was investigating the attack against TC Television. Police have arrested 13 people, including two minors, who are detained for suspected terrorism crimes.

"We reject all forms of violence as a response to the conflict we are experiencing and we ratify the strong commitment of the national government to supporting justice," Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said in a message to journalists. 
Salazar's office has launched an investigation into Suarez's killing.

 
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Ecuadorean prosecutor Cesar Suarez, who focused on pursuing organized trans-national crime in Guayas province, one of the country's most violent areas and the site of an on-air attack on a television station last week, has been killed, the attorney general said on Wednesday.

Ecuadorean prosecutor Cesar Suarez, who focused on pursuing organized trans-national crime in Guayas province, one of the country's most violent areas and the site of an on-air attack on a television station last week, has been killed, the attorney general said on Wednesday. Suarez, who had been placed in charge of investigating the television station attack, was traveling to a court hearing when he was killed, the council of the judiciary said in a statement condemning the attack. The killing had the hallmarks of an assassination, police said in a statement, adding that the victim sustained a number of gunshot wounds. Ecuador has suffered a recent burst of violence, including the gunmen interrupting the broadcast at TC Television in Guayaquil, the hostage-taking of more than 200 prison staff, explosions in several cities and the kidnapping of police officers. Also Read | Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta Platforms, announces exit from board after 12 years In response President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency, including a nighttime curfew, and designated 22 criminal groups as terrorist organizations. Also Read | UK House of Commons clears Rwanda legislation, 320 lawmakers back Sunak's bill "The criminals, the terrorists, will not hold back our commitment to Ecuadorean society," attorney general Diana Salazar said in a video posted to social media. "We call on the forces of order to guarantee the security of those who are carrying out their duties." Watch | German startup Vay rolls out car service with 'Teledriver' in Las Vegas × Suarez was investigating the attack against TC Television. Police have arrested 13 people, including two minors, who are detained for suspected terrorism crimes. "We reject all forms of violence as a response to the conflict we are experiencing and we ratify the strong commitment of the national government to supporting justice," Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said in a message to journalists. Salazar's office has launched an investigation into Suarez's killing.

Ecuadorian crime prosecutor probing TV studio attack killed in Guayas province

Forty-three prisoners remain at large after escaping a prison in northern Ecuador, the SNAI prisons agency said on Monday, as security forces continued operations throughout the country.

President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency last week, including a nighttime curfew, and designated 22 criminal groups as terrorists.

The recent explosion of violence - including the storming by gunmen of a live TV news broadcast, explosions in several cities and the kidnapping of police officers - appears to be a response to Noboa's plans to address Ecuador's serious security crisis.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ecuador: State of emergency declared after most wanted criminal escapes prison

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Police and military personnel are present in jails throughout Ecuador after some 200 kidnapped guards and administrative officials were freed from at least seven prisons over the weekend.

The inmates escaped a jail in Esmeraldas, a city close to the border with Colombia, SNAI said in a statement on Monday, after some 2,000 members of Ecuador's security forces conducted a search operation in the prison on Sunday.

"As a result of this inspection, the escape of 48 people inmates was discovered," the statement added, noting that five prisoners were recaptured.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-violence-41-hostage-prison-workers-freed-136-remain-captive-679751">Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim</a>

Security forces also learned that one prisoner had died in the prison, SNAI said, without giving further details.

Since the state of emergency was declared, security forces have detained more than 1,500 people and have carried out 41 operations against terrorist groups, according to the government.

Operations will continue throughout Ecuador this week, the government said in a separate statement.

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"The stated objective is clear: to be implacable with those who have terrorised and abused citizens," the government said.

Noboa, elected last year on pledges to restore security, has promised to keep gang leaders imprisoned in new high-security prisons, among other measures.

Forty-three prisoners remain at large after escaping a prison in northern Ecuador, the SNAI prisons agency said on Monday, as security forces continued operations throughout the country.

Forty-three prisoners remain at large after escaping a prison in northern Ecuador, the SNAI prisons agency said on Monday, as security forces continued operations throughout the country. President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency last week, including a nighttime curfew, and designated 22 criminal groups as terrorists. The recent explosion of violence - including the storming by gunmen of a live TV news broadcast, explosions in several cities and the kidnapping of police officers - appears to be a response to Noboa's plans to address Ecuador's serious security crisis. WATCH | Ecuador: State of emergency declared after most wanted criminal escapes prison Police and military personnel are present in jails throughout Ecuador after some 200 kidnapped guards and administrative officials were freed from at least seven prisons over the weekend. The inmates escaped a jail in Esmeraldas, a city close to the border with Colombia, SNAI said in a statement on Monday, after some 2,000 members of Ecuador's security forces conducted a search operation in the prison on Sunday. "As a result of this inspection, the escape of 48 people inmates was discovered," the statement added, noting that five prisoners were recaptured. ALSO READ | Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim Security forces also learned that one prisoner had died in the prison, SNAI said, without giving further details. Since the state of emergency was declared, security forces have detained more than 1,500 people and have carried out 41 operations against terrorist groups, according to the government. Operations will continue throughout Ecuador this week, the government said in a separate statement. ALSO READ | Explained | Who is Daniel Noboa? Ecuador's youngest president-elect is heir to banana empire "The stated objective is clear: to be implacable with those who have terrorised and abused citizens," the government said. Noboa, elected last year on pledges to restore security, has promised to keep gang leaders imprisoned in new high-security prisons, among other measures.

At least 43 prisoners escape Ecuador jail amid continued military operations

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed. In other news, the Indian National Congress (INC) received&nbsp;a major jolt ahead of the general elections as young party leader Milind Deora announced his resignation, ending his family's '55-year-old relationship' with the political outfit.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-violence-41-hostage-prison-workers-freed-136-remain-captive-679751">Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim</a>

All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said.

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Congress leader Milind Deora on Sunday (Jan 14) announced his resignation from the Congress party, ending a 55-year-old association of the Deora family with the country's oldest political party.&nbsp;

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Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed. In other news, the Indian National Congress (INC) received a major jolt ahead of the general elections as young party leader Milind Deora announced his resignation, ending his family's '55-year-old relationship' with the political outfit. Click on headlines to read more: Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said. India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party Congress leader Milind Deora on Sunday (Jan 14) announced his resignation from the Congress party, ending a 55-year-old association of the Deora family with the country's oldest political party. US Congress leaders reach short-term deal to avert government shutdown till March: Report The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources. 'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a swipe at India, amid the ongoing diplomatic row after returning from his five-day trip to China. Watch | Taiwan Elections 2024: Lai Ching-Te wins Presidential election amid China threat ×

Morning news brief: Ecuador prison workers freed, Congress leader Milind Deora resigns, and more

All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said.

All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said. The hostages, which SNAI previously said were 158 guards and 20 administrative staffers, were held since last Monday in at least seven prisons as a security crisis escalates in the South American country. President Daniel Noboa on the social media platform X congratulated SNAI, police and armed forces for the successful release of the prison staff. There would be an investigation to determine those responsible for the hostage-taking, SNAI said in its statement. SNAI reported incidents at several prisons earlier Saturday, including an armed confrontation with inmates at the prison in El Oro province that resulted in the death of a guard. Ecuador is grappling with a security crisis that worsened this week with the on-air storming of a TV station, unexplained explosions in several cities and the kidnapping of police officers. Armed groups appear to be reacting to Noboa's plans to tackle the dire security situation, according to the government. The police and the armed forces were continuing to carry out operations around the country. More than 1,000 people have been arrested since a state of emergency began on Monday, the government said. Watch | Ecuador violence prompts several prison raids across the region × Ecuador violence Once a bastion of peace situated between major cocaine producers, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of growing control by transnational cartels that use its ports to ship the drug to the United States and Europe. Criminal gangs in the country of about 17 million people are thought to have more than 20,000 members. Also read | Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs According to the latest official report, 859 suspects have been arrested, 25 escaped detainees have been recaptured, five "terrorists" shot dead and 57 kidnapped people have been released. A chilling video filmed in Machala prison and confirmed by police shows the corpse of a prisoner wrapped in plastic thrown into the street from inside the jail, which is under the control of inmates. Other images have emerged over the past few days showing arrested suspected gang members being ridiculed, forced to sing, hitting each other or being mistreated by soldiers.

Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim

The prison break comes following the escape of drug kingpin 'Fito.' Police officers & army deployed at prison. Prison administration deploy helicopters & drones. Jose Adolfo Macia's escape sparked prison riots & hostage taking. Watch to know more!

Ecuador: Five inmates escape from Guayaquil prison complex | Ecuador Prison Break

Archaeologists uncover lost cities in Ecuador. Huge network of ancient cities uncovered in Amazon. Upano valley is home to oldest settlements in Amazon. Experts deployed remote sensing method for investigation. Lidar uses laser lights to detect structures below tree canopies. Watch to know more!

Ecuador: 2000-year-old cities found in Upano valley, Pre-Hispanic settlement discovered

As the stalemate between security forces and organised crime reached a fever pitch, officials in Ecuador on Thursday (Jan 11) said that the gangsters had seized at least 178 prison guards and personnel.

The SNAI prison administration said that there were riots in numerous lockups, with inmates shooting at personnel of the Ecuadorian military forces.

The small South American country has descended into crisis after years of extending control by global cartels that utilise its ports to ship cocaine to the United States and Europe.

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<h2>Ecuador vows to crush gangs</h2>

The country's armed forces deployed more than 22,400 soldiers across the country in an attempt to quash the gangs' terror campaign that has killed 16 people.

The government of President Daniel Noboa has vowed not to back down in its "war" against 22 criminal gangs.

"They wanted to instil fear, but they aroused our ire," Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said on social media.

Watch |&nbsp;Ecuador violence: Ecuador enters third day of the cartel terror campaign

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"They believed they would subdue an entire country but forgot that the armed forces are trained for war."

The drug cartels, since Monday (Jan 8) have been carrying out a campaign of kidnappings and attacks in response to a government crackdown on organised crime that prompted Noboa to declare the country to be in a "state of war."

"Yield to evil: never!" 36-year-old Noboa, in office since November, said in a video message broadcast on television Thursday. "Fight tirelessly: always!"

The recent wave of violence was set off by the revelation on Sunday (Jan 7) of the jailbreak of one of the most potent drug lords in the nation, Jose Adolfo Macias, also referred to as "Fito".

Noboa, on Monday, imposed a state of emergency along with a nighttime curfew, but the gangs retaliated by declaring a state of "war", further threatening to execute civilians and security forces.

They have incited multiple prison riots, triggered blasts, and set vehicles on fire in crowded areas.

Police released a statement saying that the death toll had risen to 16 late on Wednesday with a "terrorist" attack on a discotheque in the Amazon that killed two and wounded nine people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the stalemate between security forces and organised crime reached a fever pitch, officials in Ecuador on Thursday (Jan 11) said that the gangsters had seized at least 178 prison guards and personnel.

As the stalemate between security forces and organised crime reached a fever pitch, officials in Ecuador on Thursday (Jan 11) said that the gangsters had seized at least 178 prison guards and personnel. The SNAI prison administration said that there were riots in numerous lockups, with inmates shooting at personnel of the Ecuadorian military forces. The small South American country has descended into crisis after years of extending control by global cartels that utilise its ports to ship cocaine to the United States and Europe. Also read: Iran claims to have identified bomb maker behind twin blasts that killed dozens Ecuador vows to crush gangs The country's armed forces deployed more than 22,400 soldiers across the country in an attempt to quash the gangs' terror campaign that has killed 16 people. The government of President Daniel Noboa has vowed not to back down in its "war" against 22 criminal gangs. "They wanted to instil fear, but they aroused our ire," Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said on social media. Watch | Ecuador violence: Ecuador enters third day of the cartel terror campaign × "They believed they would subdue an entire country but forgot that the armed forces are trained for war." The drug cartels, since Monday (Jan 8) have been carrying out a campaign of kidnappings and attacks in response to a government crackdown on organised crime that prompted Noboa to declare the country to be in a "state of war." "Yield to evil: never!" 36-year-old Noboa, in office since November, said in a video message broadcast on television Thursday. "Fight tirelessly: always!" The recent wave of violence was set off by the revelation on Sunday (Jan 7) of the jailbreak of one of the most potent drug lords in the nation, Jose Adolfo Macias, also referred to as "Fito". Noboa, on Monday, imposed a state of emergency along with a nighttime curfew, but the gangs retaliated by declaring a state of "war", further threatening to execute civilians and security forces. They have incited multiple prison riots, triggered blasts, and set vehicles on fire in crowded areas. Police released a statement saying that the death toll had risen to 16 late on Wednesday with a "terrorist" attack on a discotheque in the Amazon that killed two and wounded nine people. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. 
 
Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads. 
 
However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press. 
 
The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-violence-178-prison-guards-staff-held-hostage-by-gangs-679148">Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs</a>

Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.”

<h2 lang="en-US">'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher</h2>

The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe. 
 
Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide. 
 
A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants. 
 
University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.” 
 
University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds.

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis

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“The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press. 
 
The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said. 
 
“There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads.

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads. However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press. The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years. Also read: Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.” 'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe. Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide. A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants. University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.” University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds. Watch: Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis “The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press. The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said. “There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon

The wave of violence currently sweeping through Ecuador, attributed to the activities of powerful gangs, has thrown the country into a state of fear. This unprecedented surge in violence is tied to several incidents, including prison riots, kidnappings of police officers, and a brazen storming of a TV station. In an attempt to regain control and restore peace, the Ecuadorian President, Daniel Noboa, has ordered the military to confront these powerful criminal organizations, now branded as "terrorist" groups.

Ecuador violence prompts several prison raids across the region

Dozens of armed men stormed a TV broadcast in Ecuador just a day after President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day National Emergency. The Ecuadorian President has ordered that all the criminal gangs involved in the attack be neutralized after the country exploded into what he called an internal armed conflict.

Ecuador: Violent chaos unfolds as soldiers patrol streets, nationwide curfew imposed

Ecuador violence: Ecuador enters third day of the cartel terror campaign

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs.

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs. Noboa, who came to power in January, named 22 gangs as terrorist organisations which made them official military targets. Following the government announcements, gangs started hitting back with a fresh wave of violence across the country. The crisis presents a fresh challenge for Noboa, who pledged during last year's election campaign that he would curb violence in the Central American country. A fresh wave of violence Violence is not new in Ecuador. Since the Covid pandemic in 2020, the security situation in the country worsened which also battered the economy. Citing government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that the number of violent deaths rose to 8,008 in 2023, nearly doubling the figure reported in 2022. The government has blamed the situation on the growing reach of cocaine-trafficking gangs, who have destabilised swathes of South America. Ecuador's prison system is also a major contributor to the de-stability. Inside jails, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. In recent times, prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in numerous deaths. Govt's crackdown and chaos that unfolded Last Sunday, the police said that Adolfo Macias, a notorious narco boss and leader of the Los Choneros, disappeared from the prison where he was serving a 34-year sentence. This caused President Noboa to declare a state of emergency in Ecuador for sixty days, which included a nationwide curfew from 11 pm to 5 am. Exceptions were given to workers and individuals travelling to and from airports with a scheduled flight during curfew hours. As the week began on Monday, there were incidents of violence in at least six prisons. Reuters reported that as of Wednesday, more than 100 guards and other staff were still being held hostage by prisoners. In central Ecuador's Riobamba, around 39 inmates escaped from a prison but some of them were re-captured. The report said that seven police officers had also been kidnapped of which three were freed. Also read: 'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover Unrest has spread in the streets. On Tuesday, videos circulated on social media showing armed men setting vehicles on fire in a street in Esmeraldas. On the same day, two police officers were killed in Guayas province where Guayaquil is located. The most dramatic display of violence came when armed men wearing balaclavas stormed a studio of public broadcaster TC carrying weapons and grenades on Tuesday. The gunmen held journalists hostage. Over a dozen people in the group were arrested. Explosions were also reported in several cities on Tuesday, but there were no reports of injuries. The police said on Wednesday that 70 people had been arrested since Monday in response to incidents like the TV station take-over. Schools were shut across the country (on Wednesday), with students tending to online classes and many businesses choosing to close for the day. Since the state of emergency began, 329 people, mostly members of gangs like Los Choneros, Los Lobos and Los Tiguerones, were arrested, armed forces commander Jaime Vela told reporters on Wednesday evening. "There is no hostage who has been murdered," Vela said in response to videos shared on social media which showed prison staff being subjected to extreme violence, including being shot and hanged. 'An armed conflict' A day after declaring a state of emergency, President Noboa said in an updated decree on Tuesday that he recognised an "internal armed conflict" in Ecuador and identified several criminal gangs as terrorist groups, including Los Choneros. The decree ordered the armed forces to neutralise the groups. "It is a non-international armed conflict. We are fighting for national peace. We are also fighting against terrorist groups, which today number more than 20,000 people," Noboa told a local radio station on Wednesday. Also watch | Ecuador: Violent chaos unfolds as soldiers patrol streets, nationwide curfew imposed × "We will not give in to the stupid things they are used to doing. They, I mean the terrorists who are in these prisons. It is difficult, it is hard and I also sympathise with the families of the kidnapped officials. We are in a state of war, we are in a state of war, and we cannot give in to these terrorist groups," he added. After coming to power, the president has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" for security. This plan includes a new intelligence unit, tactical weapons for security forces, new high-security prisons, and reinforced security at ports and airports - key points for drug shipments - which would cost some $800 million. In December last year, Noboa said that the US would provide new weapons worth $200 million for the army, and the rest of the funds would come from the national budget. Later this year, he plans to hold a security-focused plebiscite. This would include asking citizens if the government should undo a ban on the extradition of Ecuadoreans wanted abroad and if the seizure of assets from suspected criminals should be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How Ecuador became a nation held hostage by its own criminal gangs

Ecuador Violence: Waves of arrests after army deployed to restore law and order

Ecuador on edge, enters third day of Cartel Terror Campaign | Waves of arrests start | WION

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-ecuador-on-edge-as-armed-men-storm-tv-station-state-of-emergency-declared-678390">takeover of a Guayaquil TV station</a>, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal."

On Tuesday, gunmen stormed a studio at public broadcaster TC, carrying a range of weapons as well as grenades amid a state of emergency imposed in the country following the disappearance of one of the most powerful narco bosses.&nbsp;

The disappearance of Jose Adolfo Macias prompted the government to launch a military crackdown (on criminal gangs) which in turn led to gangs hitting back. The country is now under an emergency and the government has declared war on the gangs.

Speaking to the news agency Reuters, journalist Jose Luis Calderon of TC said that he was in the studio as his colleagues led a broadcast on Tuesday afternoon when he heard yelling, shots and people running outside in the hallway.

"Our immediate reaction was to seek refuge in the bathroom," Calderon, 47, said, adding he hid with some colleagues and they called family members and police, but were overheard by the gunmen.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-declares-state-of-emergency-after-its-most-wanted-criminal-disappears-from-jail-678015">Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail</a>

"They forced us, under threats, to come out. They took us (into the studio) as hostages with other colleagues," he further said and pointed out that the attackers menaced the staff with guns.&nbsp;

Upon interrupting the broadcast, the gunmen said that they were part of La Firma, a gang associated with the larger crime group Los Choneros.

Calderon further told Reuters on Wednesday that the gunmen held a rifle to his head and tucked dynamite into his jacket, demanding he appear on the live feed.

"That's when I said the police shouldn't come in or they would kill us one by one, that was what they obliged me to say," the journalist said, adding the experience was surreal.&nbsp;

The gunmen opened fire "and they shot a door and one of the bullets ricocheted and injured the leg of a cameraman," Calderon said. Another employee suffered a broken arm, according to TC.&nbsp;

The gunmen eventually surrendered and 13 people were arrested at the site.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the takeover of a Guayaquil TV station, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal.

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the takeover of a Guayaquil TV station, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal." On Tuesday, gunmen stormed a studio at public broadcaster TC, carrying a range of weapons as well as grenades amid a state of emergency imposed in the country following the disappearance of one of the most powerful narco bosses. The disappearance of Jose Adolfo Macias prompted the government to launch a military crackdown (on criminal gangs) which in turn led to gangs hitting back. The country is now under an emergency and the government has declared war on the gangs. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, journalist Jose Luis Calderon of TC said that he was in the studio as his colleagues led a broadcast on Tuesday afternoon when he heard yelling, shots and people running outside in the hallway. "Our immediate reaction was to seek refuge in the bathroom," Calderon, 47, said, adding he hid with some colleagues and they called family members and police, but were overheard by the gunmen. Also read: Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail "They forced us, under threats, to come out. They took us (into the studio) as hostages with other colleagues," he further said and pointed out that the attackers menaced the staff with guns. Upon interrupting the broadcast, the gunmen said that they were part of La Firma, a gang associated with the larger crime group Los Choneros. Calderon further told Reuters on Wednesday that the gunmen held a rifle to his head and tucked dynamite into his jacket, demanding he appear on the live feed. "That's when I said the police shouldn't come in or they would kill us one by one, that was what they obliged me to say," the journalist said, adding the experience was surreal. The gunmen opened fire "and they shot a door and one of the bullets ricocheted and injured the leg of a cameraman," Calderon said. Another employee suffered a broken arm, according to TC. The gunmen eventually surrendered and 13 people were arrested at the site. (With inputs from agencies)

'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover

The country has fallen to cocaine gangsters. On Tuesday, a masked gunman stormed a tv studio during a live broadcast, with long-range guns and grenades. Eventually, the police came to their rescue and arrested the attackers but the whole episode reveals the challenges the country's president faces.

Gravitas | Cocaine gangsters take over in Ecuador | Hostage crisis at Ecuadorian TV station

Masked men wielding guns and explosives forcefully entered the set of a live broadcast on the TC Television network in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The armed intruders interrupted a news programme while brandishing pistols and what appeared to be dynamite.&nbsp;

The televised intrusion lasted approximately 15 minutes before the station's signal was cut off.&nbsp;

The incident left station personnel in shock, with Alina Manrique, head of news for TC Television stating, "All I know is that it's time to leave this country and go very far away."

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🇪🇨 | URGENTE: Delincuentes irrumpieron en TC Televisión y secuestran a todos en vivo y directo en Guayaquil, Ecuador. <a href="https://t.co/ob1yleusOc">pic.twitter.com/ob1yleusOc</a>
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Ecuador has been grappling with a series of attacks, including the abduction of police officers, following the reported escape of gang leader Adolfo Macías, alias "Fito", from prison.&nbsp;

<h2>State of Emergency declared in Ecuador</h2>

President Daniel Noboa declared a national state of emergency on Monday (Jan 8) and granted authorities the power to suspend individual rights and deploy the military.

The US State Department said on Tuesday (Jan 9) it was "extremely concerned" by violence in Ecuador.

"Extremely concerned by today's violence &amp; kidnappings in Ecuador," the top US diplomat for Latin America, Brian Nichols, wrote on X, adding that American officials would "remain in close contact" with President Daniel Noboa's team.

President Noboa authorised the military to "neutralise" the armed groups. The national police chief confirmed the arrest of all masked intruders and seized their weapons and explosives. Thirteen individuals were taken into custody.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ecuador: State of emergency declared after most wanted criminal escapes prison

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Ecuador has refrained from disclosing the total number of attacks or identifying the perpetrators behind the recent wave of violence.

<h2>At least 10 dead in gang violence so far: Police</h2>

At least 10 people, including two law enforcement officers, have been killed in violence linked to criminal gangs in Ecuador, police said,&nbsp;a matter&nbsp;the country's president described as "an internal armed conflict."

Eight people were dead and three injured in a series of attacks in the port city of Guayaquil, a local police chief said at a press conference. In a separate statement posted on X, police also said that two officers were "viciously murdered by armed criminals" in the nearby town of Nobol.

<h2>Who is responsible for escalating violence in Ecuador?</h2>

Los Choneros, one of the implicated gangs with ties to Mexico's Sinaloa cartel, is held responsible for escalating violence in Ecuador, including the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.&nbsp;

Adolfo Macías, the gang leader, remains at large following his apparent escape, prompting investigations and charges against prison guards.

President Noboa said that he is determined to restore peace, and declared on Instagram that his government would confront crime head-on.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-mayor-survives-assassination-attempt-ahead-of-general-elections-627033">Ecuador mayor survives assassination attempt ahead of general elections</a>

States of emergency, also deployed by Noboa's predecessor Guillermo Lasso, have become a recurrent measure to combat rising violence in Ecuador.

(With inputs from agencies)

Masked men wielding guns and explosives forcefully entered the set of a live broadcast on the TC Television network in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The armed intruders interrupted a news programme while brandishing pistols and what appeared to be dynamite.

Masked men wielding guns and explosives forcefully entered the set of a live broadcast on the TC Television network in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The armed intruders interrupted a news programme while brandishing pistols and what appeared to be dynamite. The televised intrusion lasted approximately 15 minutes before the station's signal was cut off. The incident left station personnel in shock, with Alina Manrique, head of news for TC Television stating, "All I know is that it's time to leave this country and go very far away." 🇪🇨 | URGENTE: Delincuentes irrumpieron en TC Televisión y secuestran a todos en vivo y directo en Guayaquil, Ecuador. pic.twitter.com/ob1yleusOc — Alerta Mundial (@AlertaMundoNews) January 9, 2024 × Ecuador has been grappling with a series of attacks, including the abduction of police officers, following the reported escape of gang leader Adolfo Macías, alias "Fito", from prison. State of Emergency declared in Ecuador President Daniel Noboa declared a national state of emergency on Monday (Jan 8) and granted authorities the power to suspend individual rights and deploy the military. The US State Department said on Tuesday (Jan 9) it was "extremely concerned" by violence in Ecuador. "Extremely concerned by today's violence & kidnappings in Ecuador," the top US diplomat for Latin America, Brian Nichols, wrote on X, adding that American officials would "remain in close contact" with President Daniel Noboa's team. President Noboa authorised the military to "neutralise" the armed groups. The national police chief confirmed the arrest of all masked intruders and seized their weapons and explosives. Thirteen individuals were taken into custody. Also watch | Ecuador: State of emergency declared after most wanted criminal escapes prison × Ecuador has refrained from disclosing the total number of attacks or identifying the perpetrators behind the recent wave of violence. At least 10 dead in gang violence so far: Police At least 10 people, including two law enforcement officers, have been killed in violence linked to criminal gangs in Ecuador, police said, a matter the country's president described as "an internal armed conflict." Eight people were dead and three injured in a series of attacks in the port city of Guayaquil, a local police chief said at a press conference. In a separate statement posted on X, police also said that two officers were "viciously murdered by armed criminals" in the nearby town of Nobol. Who is responsible for escalating violence in Ecuador? Los Choneros, one of the implicated gangs with ties to Mexico's Sinaloa cartel, is held responsible for escalating violence in Ecuador, including the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. Adolfo Macías, the gang leader, remains at large following his apparent escape, prompting investigations and charges against prison guards. President Noboa said that he is determined to restore peace, and declared on Instagram that his government would confront crime head-on. Also read | Ecuador mayor survives assassination attempt ahead of general elections States of emergency, also deployed by Noboa's predecessor Guillermo Lasso, have become a recurrent measure to combat rising violence in Ecuador. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador: Gunshots on live TV broadcast send shockwaves amid state of emergency | Video

At least 10 people, including two officials, have been killed in violence linked to criminal gangs in Ecuador. This as shocking scenes unfolded in the nation after a state of emergency was declared. The commander general of the nation's police has declared the attack on a local tv station as an act of terrorism.

At least 10 dead in Ecuador gang violence: Police

Masked men broke onto the set of a public television channel in Ecuador waving guns and explosives during a live broadcast Tuesday, and the president issued a decree declaring that the violence-plagued country had entered an “internal armed conflict.”

Gunmen burst into Ecuador television studio live on air as attacks in country escalate

Armed men wearing balaclavas disrupt live TV broadcast in Ecuador

One of Ecuador's most feared gangsters is believed to have escaped from prison, a government spokesman said Monday as hundreds of police officers searched a maximum security jail.

The leader of the powerful Los Choneros gang, Jose Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito", was reported missing on Sunday by authorities who launched the search of the penitentiary in the port city of Guayaquil.

"The most likely" scenario is that he fled several hours before a planned police operation in the prison, said government spokesman Roberto Izurieta.

"The full force of the State is being deployed to find this extremely dangerous individual."

Authorities have not confirmed the escape of the 44-year-old criminal boss.

Izurieta bemoaned "the level of infiltration" of criminal groups, and said the Ecuadorian prison system had "failed."

Long a peaceful haven between top cocaine exporters Colombia and Peru, Ecuador has seen violence explode in recent years as enemy gangs with links to Mexican and Colombian cartels vie for control.

Gang wars largely play out in the country's prisons, where criminal leaders such as Fito wield immense control.

The battles have left some 460 people dead inside the country's prisons since 2021, their bodies often found dismembered, decapitated, or incinerated.

Fito has been held since 2011, serving a 34-year sentence for organized crime, drug trafficking and murder.

In a massive operation involving thousands of security forces, he was transferred to the 150-person La Roca prison in August last year, after the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

A week before his death, Villavicencio said he had received threats from the gang.

One of Ecuador's most feared gangsters is believed to have escaped from prison, a government spokesman said Monday as hundreds of police officers searched a maximum security jail.

One of Ecuador's most feared gangsters is believed to have escaped from prison, a government spokesman said Monday as hundreds of police officers searched a maximum security jail. The leader of the powerful Los Choneros gang, Jose Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito", was reported missing on Sunday by authorities who launched the search of the penitentiary in the port city of Guayaquil. "The most likely" scenario is that he fled several hours before a planned police operation in the prison, said government spokesman Roberto Izurieta. "The full force of the State is being deployed to find this extremely dangerous individual." Authorities have not confirmed the escape of the 44-year-old criminal boss. Izurieta bemoaned "the level of infiltration" of criminal groups, and said the Ecuadorian prison system had "failed." Long a peaceful haven between top cocaine exporters Colombia and Peru, Ecuador has seen violence explode in recent years as enemy gangs with links to Mexican and Colombian cartels vie for control. Gang wars largely play out in the country's prisons, where criminal leaders such as Fito wield immense control. The battles have left some 460 people dead inside the country's prisons since 2021, their bodies often found dismembered, decapitated, or incinerated. Fito has been held since 2011, serving a 34-year sentence for organized crime, drug trafficking and murder. In a massive operation involving thousands of security forces, he was transferred to the 150-person La Roca prison in August last year, after the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. A week before his death, Villavicencio said he had received threats from the gang.

Manhunt launched as Ecuador gang boss vanishes from jail

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa on Monday declared a state of emergency for 60 days a day after the country's most-wanted prisoner disappeared from the jail where he was being held. Watch to know more!

Ecuador: President Daniel Noboa declares state of emergency for sixty days amid prison chaos

Ecuador: State of emergency declared after most wanted criminal escapes prison

Ecuador on Monday (Jan 8) declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held. Four police officers were kidnapped following the imposition of the measure.

Ecuador on Monday (Jan 8) declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held. Four police officers were kidnapped following the imposition of the measure. In the coastal city of Machala "three police officers, who were on duty at the scene, were kidnapped", while a fourth officer was kidnapped in the capital Quito, Ecuador's police force said on X. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Adolfo Macias, leader of the Los Choneros criminal gang, disappeared from the Guayaquil prison on Sunday where he was serving a 34-year sentence. A day later, the national prison agency said there were incidents in at least six of Ecuador's prisons. "I have given clear and precise instructions to military and police commanders to intervene in controlling prisons. I have just signed the state of exception decree so that the armed forces have full political and legal backing in their actions. I call on the citizens because this is everyone's fight and to show their support," Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa said on Monday. "We are experiencing a sign that things must change in the country and that our laws are not enough to live in peace. There is no room for opportunistic politicians to seek advantage amid a prison security crisis. We will not negotiate with terrorists, nor will we rest until we return peace to all Ecuadoreans," President Noboa added. What happens now? The state of emergency will see the deployment of the military onto the streets and into prisons while setting a national nighttime curfew. Previous governments in Ecuador have resorted in recent years to states of emergency in efforts to boost security but without major results. This emergency measure is among the first big security tests for Noboa, who took office in November last year promising to crack down on soaring levels of violence in the country. Who is Adolfo Macias? Jose Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito," is the leader of the notorious Los Choneros gang. In 2011, Fito was sentenced to 34 years in prison for various crimes, including drug trafficking and murder. During a press conference on Sunday, government spokesperson Roberto Izurieta said that over 3,000 law enforcement personnel were trying to locate Fito. “We are convinced that with the support of the armed forces and the police, and their professionalism, we will finish this search successfully,” Izurieta added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail

Police in South America's&nbsp;Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito.&nbsp;

Armstrong was reportedly abducted on Saturday&nbsp;from his home in the town of Baba in Los Rios province, local Ecuavisa outlet reported.

<h2>Colin Armstrong rescue operation: How it occurred?</h2>

According to General Cesar Zapata, Commander General of the Police in Ecuador,&nbsp;Armstrong&nbsp;was released on Wednesday and was now safe.

Zapata added that nine people had been apprehended in the operation, one foreign national&nbsp;and eight Ecuadoreans.

Zapata later told reporters that&nbsp;a&nbsp;Colombian woman was kidnapped along with Armstrong before being abandoned in a residential area of Guayaquil. The woman was attached with what appeared to be explosives but they later turned out to be fake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-third-political-leader-killed-in-a-week-after-presidential-hopefuls-assassination-625774">Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination</a>

According to a report in the Reuters, police carried out more than 30 raids on homes, uncovering grenades, firearms, ammunition and drugs. They also located a vehicle they say was used for the kidnapping.

<h2>Why&nbsp;was Armstrong kidnapped?</h2>

The police said that kidnapping was economically motivated. "We will not allow impunity. Police actions continue," Interior Minister Monica Palencia added on the social media platform.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-drugs-gang-warfare-and-corruption-transformed-ecuador-625424">Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder</a>

Kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common in Ecuador amid rising crime largely attributed to drug trafficking gangs active in the region.

Britain's ambassador in Ecuador, Chris Campbell, thanked the police for the rescue.

(With inputs from the agencies)

Police in South America's Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito.

Police in South America's Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito. Armstrong was reportedly abducted on Saturday from his home in the town of Baba in Los Rios province, local Ecuavisa outlet reported. Colin Armstrong rescue operation: How it occurred? According to General Cesar Zapata, Commander General of the Police in Ecuador, Armstrong was released on Wednesday and was now safe. Zapata added that nine people had been apprehended in the operation, one foreign national and eight Ecuadoreans. Zapata later told reporters that a Colombian woman was kidnapped along with Armstrong before being abandoned in a residential area of Guayaquil. The woman was attached with what appeared to be explosives but they later turned out to be fake. Also read | Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination According to a report in the Reuters, police carried out more than 30 raids on homes, uncovering grenades, firearms, ammunition and drugs. They also located a vehicle they say was used for the kidnapping. Why was Armstrong kidnapped? The police said that kidnapping was economically motivated. "We will not allow impunity. Police actions continue," Interior Minister Monica Palencia added on the social media platform. Also read | Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder Kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common in Ecuador amid rising crime largely attributed to drug trafficking gangs active in the region. Britain's ambassador in Ecuador, Chris Campbell, thanked the police for the rescue. (With inputs from the agencies)

Ecuador: Colin Armstrong, British businessman rescued, nine arrested

Daniel Noboa, business heir, and now Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect has vowed to "restore peace" to the drug gang war-ravaged South American country.&nbsp;

"Tomorrow we start work for this new Ecuador, we start working to rebuild a country seriously battered by violence, by corruption and by hate," he told supporters during an address in the seaside town of Olon.

"From tomorrow Daniel Noboa starts work as your new president," added the president-elect.

A surprise qualifier for the run-off, Noboa is a banana empire heir with a significant challenge in front of him. Here's everything you need to know about Ecuador's new president-elect.

<h2>Who is Daniel Noboa?</h2>

On Sunday (October 15th) Noboa, a businessman, fulfilled a long-held family ambition and was elected the youngest president-elect in modern Ecuadoran history.

He belongs to the brand-new National Democratic Action Alliance, an alliance which incorporates parties from both the left and the right political spectrums. The party whose economic philosophy is liberalism won the third-highest number of seats in the August legislative elections.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-elect-noboa-vows-to-restore-peace-to-violence-plagued-ecuador-647358">President-elect Noboa vows to 'restore peace' to violence-plagued Ecuador</a>

The young, 35-year-old leader edged out socialist rival Luisa Gonzalez and won the election with about 52 per cent of the votes.

He is the son of Ecuador's richest man, banana tycoon Alvaro Noboa, who unsuccessfully attempted to become Ecuador's president but lost five times. He is married and has two children.

The president-elect rose out of obscurity and entered the limelight for wearing a bulletproof vest to a televised presidential debate. At the debate, which took place shortly after the broad daylight assassination of Noboa, he claimed to have received death threats.

He will hold the president's post for only around 17 months — from December this year until May 2025 — and will face the ballot in 2025. Under Ecuador's laws, he can run again for president for the 2025-29 term and the one after that.&nbsp;

<h2>Education, career and previous political experience</h2>

Daniel Noboa, as per AFP, has studied business administration at New York University and has a public administration degree from Harvard's Kennedy School.&nbsp;

He is a little-known politician with only a short two-year political stint to his name — a member of the National Assembly of Ecuador between 2021 and 2023.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-leftist-luisa-gonzalez-businessman-noboa-set-to-go-to-second-round-627412">Ecuador election: Leftist Luisa Gonzalez, businessman Noboa set to go to second round</a>

Before entering politics, he established himself as a businessman, founding his own company at the age of 18 — DNA Entertainment Group, an event organising company.

He also served as the Shipping Director and commercial and logistics director of Noboa Corporation between 2010 and 2018.

<h2>Campaign promises</h2>

On Sunday, addressing his supporters, Noboa said that he intends to "give progress to a country... that has all the elements to be a global example."

As per AFP, Noboa, who identifies as "centre-left" embraces neoliberal economic thinking and has vowed to prioritise job creation through tax incentives and credit facilities to help small businesses.

He has also proposed the introduction of a jury system to judge corruption cases. Corruption, as per AFP, happens to be one of the biggest challenges faced by Ecuador.&nbsp;

To address yet another enormous challenge: drug trafficking, he has pledged to beef up security at ports and airports, proven hot spots for drug smuggling.

Noboa also wants to militarise the nation's borders and create an offshore prison on barges or ships that will be used to isolate violent inmates.

Furthermore, Noboa has said that he will balance meeting Ecuador's foreign debt obligations with the needs of the population.

<h2>Campaign strategy</h2>

Daniel Noboa, as per Reuters, made a special point to woo young voters — holding events at universities toward the end of the campaign.

This year, as per AFP estimates, 13 million Ecuadoreans between the ages of 18 and 29 were obliged to vote.&nbsp;

He also made extensive use of social media, in fact, he ran much of his campaign online.&nbsp;

At one time, thanks to viral videos of "Noboas" posted by citizens, his name even emerged as a trend on social media platforms like X and TikTok. Noboas is the term coined for thousands of human-sized cardboard cutouts of the leader which started showing up at house parties, on the beach or even riding the bus.&nbsp;

<h2>Rivals left behind</h2>

With more than 90 per cent of the votes counted, Daniel Noboa emerged as the victor winning over 52 per cent of the votes.&nbsp;

His leftist adversary Luisa Gonzalez won about 48 per cent of the votes.

However, polls as per Reuters showed the contest would be much closer; several put Noboa and Gonzalez the two leading candidates within the margin of error of each other.

Calling on the president-elect to fulfil his promises to students and the elderly, Gonzalez congratulated Noboa him on his victory, said: "Daniel Noboa, our profound congratulations, because this is democracy."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Daniel Noboa, business heir, and now Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect has vowed to "restore peace" to the drug gang war-ravaged South American country. "Tomorrow we start work for this new Ecuador, we start working to rebuild a country seriously battered by violence, by corruption and by hate," he told supporters during an address in the seaside town of Olon.

Daniel Noboa, business heir, and now Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect has vowed to "restore peace" to the drug gang war-ravaged South American country. "Tomorrow we start work for this new Ecuador, we start working to rebuild a country seriously battered by violence, by corruption and by hate," he told supporters during an address in the seaside town of Olon. "From tomorrow Daniel Noboa starts work as your new president," added the president-elect. A surprise qualifier for the run-off, Noboa is a banana empire heir with a significant challenge in front of him. Here's everything you need to know about Ecuador's new president-elect. Who is Daniel Noboa? On Sunday (October 15th) Noboa, a businessman, fulfilled a long-held family ambition and was elected the youngest president-elect in modern Ecuadoran history. He belongs to the brand-new National Democratic Action Alliance, an alliance which incorporates parties from both the left and the right political spectrums. The party whose economic philosophy is liberalism won the third-highest number of seats in the August legislative elections. Also read | President-elect Noboa vows to 'restore peace' to violence-plagued Ecuador The young, 35-year-old leader edged out socialist rival Luisa Gonzalez and won the election with about 52 per cent of the votes. He is the son of Ecuador's richest man, banana tycoon Alvaro Noboa, who unsuccessfully attempted to become Ecuador's president but lost five times. He is married and has two children. The president-elect rose out of obscurity and entered the limelight for wearing a bulletproof vest to a televised presidential debate. At the debate, which took place shortly after the broad daylight assassination of Noboa, he claimed to have received death threats. He will hold the president's post for only around 17 months — from December this year until May 2025 — and will face the ballot in 2025. Under Ecuador's laws, he can run again for president for the 2025-29 term and the one after that. Education, career and previous political experience Daniel Noboa, as per AFP, has studied business administration at New York University and has a public administration degree from Harvard's Kennedy School. He is a little-known politician with only a short two-year political stint to his name — a member of the National Assembly of Ecuador between 2021 and 2023. Also read | Ecuador election: Leftist Luisa Gonzalez, businessman Noboa set to go to second round Before entering politics, he established himself as a businessman, founding his own company at the age of 18 — DNA Entertainment Group, an event organising company. He also served as the Shipping Director and commercial and logistics director of Noboa Corporation between 2010 and 2018. Campaign promises On Sunday, addressing his supporters, Noboa said that he intends to "give progress to a country... that has all the elements to be a global example." As per AFP, Noboa, who identifies as "centre-left" embraces neoliberal economic thinking and has vowed to prioritise job creation through tax incentives and credit facilities to help small businesses. He has also proposed the introduction of a jury system to judge corruption cases. Corruption, as per AFP, happens to be one of the biggest challenges faced by Ecuador. To address yet another enormous challenge: drug trafficking, he has pledged to beef up security at ports and airports, proven hot spots for drug smuggling. Noboa also wants to militarise the nation's borders and create an offshore prison on barges or ships that will be used to isolate violent inmates. Furthermore, Noboa has said that he will balance meeting Ecuador's foreign debt obligations with the needs of the population. Campaign strategy Daniel Noboa, as per Reuters, made a special point to woo young voters — holding events at universities toward the end of the campaign. This year, as per AFP estimates, 13 million Ecuadoreans between the ages of 18 and 29 were obliged to vote. He also made extensive use of social media, in fact, he ran much of his campaign online. At one time, thanks to viral videos of "Noboas" posted by citizens, his name even emerged as a trend on social media platforms like X and TikTok. Noboas is the term coined for thousands of human-sized cardboard cutouts of the leader which started showing up at house parties, on the beach or even riding the bus. Rivals left behind With more than 90 per cent of the votes counted, Daniel Noboa emerged as the victor winning over 52 per cent of the votes. His leftist adversary Luisa Gonzalez won about 48 per cent of the votes. However, polls as per Reuters showed the contest would be much closer; several put Noboa and Gonzalez the two leading candidates within the margin of error of each other. Calling on the president-elect to fulfil his promises to students and the elderly, Gonzalez congratulated Noboa him on his victory, said: "Daniel Noboa, our profound congratulations, because this is democracy." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Who is Daniel Noboa? Ecuador's youngest president-elect is heir to banana empire

After defeating socialist Luisa Gonzalez, a supporter of exiled former president Rafael Correa, Daniel Noboa, heir to a banana business, will serve as Ecuador's next leader. As ballots from Sunday's election were being tabulated, the 35-year-old Noboa addressed his supporters and said, "From tomorrow, Daniel Noboa starts work as your new president."

Daniel Noboa Ecuador's 'Banana Heir' is the new President

Car horns in Quito blared in celebration Sunday as banana empire heir Daniel Noboa, 35, became&nbsp;Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect, vowing to "restore peace" to a country ravaged by a bloody drug gang war.

After the electoral authority declared him the victor and socialist rival Luisa Gonzalez conceded defeat, Noboa vowed that "tomorrow we begin to work to rebuild a country that has been severely hit by violence, corruption and hatred."

Long a peaceful haven between major cocaine exporters Colombia and Peru,&nbsp;Ecuador&nbsp;has seen violence explode in recent years as enemy gangs with links to Mexican and Colombian cartels vie for control.

The fighting has seen at least 460 inmates massacred in prisons since February 2021 -- many beheaded or burned alive in mass riots.

The bloodbath has spilt into the streets, with gangs dangling headless corpses from city bridges and detonating car bombs outside police stations in a show of force.

In August, the violence claimed the life of anti-graft and anti-cartel presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, mowed down in a barrage of submachine-gun fire after a campaign speech.&nbsp;

He had been polling in second place.

A state of emergency was declared after former journalist Villavicencio's assassination, and Noboa and Gonzalez both campaigned and voted, in bullet-proof vests and with heavy security details.

On Sunday, Noboa told supporters in his home town of Olon in the southwest his goal was "to restore peace... to bring back education to the youth" and create jobs.

<h2>'Destroyed' country&nbsp;</h2>

Ecuadorans voted for 10 hours Sunday with no reports of violence, watched over by some 100,000 police and soldiers.

"May we elect the best president because (he or she) will govern a country that is destroyed... to address all these problems such as insecurity," Indigenous voter Ramiro Duchitanga told AFP in Cuenca in&nbsp;Ecuador's south.

"It is a critical election," added Freddy Escobar, a popular 49-year-old singer in Quito, citing crime as his main worry. "I am voting in fear, not knowing what will happen."

The main concerns of Ecuadorians, according to opinion polls, are crime and violence in a country where the murder rate quadrupled in the four years to 2022.&nbsp;

Noboa, who obtained some 52 per cent of the vote according to a near-complete count, was elected to only 16 months in office to complete the term of incumbent Guillermo Lasso, who called a snap vote to avoid possible impeachment for alleged embezzlement.

Under the law, Noboa can&nbsp;run again for the 2025-29 presidential term, and the one after that.

Both runoff candidates were relative unknowns in politics.

Noboa is the son of one of&nbsp;Ecuador's richest men, who himself has five failed presidential bids to his name.

The president-elect, whose only political experience is two years as a lawmaker, calls himself "center-left" but embraces neoliberal economic thinking.

He ran on the ticket of the brand-new National Democratic Action alliance, which incorporates parties from the centre and left of the political spectrum.

Ecuador&nbsp;has a poverty rate of 27 per cent, with a quarter of the population unemployed or holding down an informal job.

Opinion polls list unemployment as voters' second concern.

Noboa reiterated Sunday that he intends to "give progress to a country... that has all the elements to be a global example."

Gonzalez was the handpicked candidate of socialist ex-president Rafael Correa, who governed from 2007 to 2017 and lives in exile in Belgium to avoid serving an eight-year prison term for graft -- another major concern in the country.

From eight candidates, Gonzalez took the most votes in the first round in August with 34 per cent, followed by Noboa with 23 per cent.

On Sunday, she offered her "profound congratulations" to Noboa, "because this is democracy."

Addressing supporters in Quito, Gonzales also said she would not be claiming fraud.

With 13 lawmakers in his corner out of 137 in parliament, Noboa will not have an absolute majority backing his legislative projects, and with only 16 months in office, will face an uphill battle to push through any reforms, analysts say.

Voting is compulsory for 13.4 million eligible voters in the country of about 18 million, and the election authority said turnout was above 82 per cent.

After images on social media showed a person appearing to fill out multiple ballots in favour of Noboa, the head of the National Electoral Commission, Diana Atamaint, promised an "immediate" investigation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Car horns in Quito blared in celebration Sunday as banana empire heir Daniel Noboa, 35, became Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect, vowing to "restore peace" to a country ravaged by a bloody drug gang war.

Car horns in Quito blared in celebration Sunday as banana empire heir Daniel Noboa, 35, became Ecuador's youngest-ever president-elect, vowing to "restore peace" to a country ravaged by a bloody drug gang war. After the electoral authority declared him the victor and socialist rival Luisa Gonzalez conceded defeat, Noboa vowed that "tomorrow we begin to work to rebuild a country that has been severely hit by violence, corruption and hatred." Long a peaceful haven between major cocaine exporters Colombia and Peru, Ecuador has seen violence explode in recent years as enemy gangs with links to Mexican and Colombian cartels vie for control. The fighting has seen at least 460 inmates massacred in prisons since February 2021 -- many beheaded or burned alive in mass riots. The bloodbath has spilt into the streets, with gangs dangling headless corpses from city bridges and detonating car bombs outside police stations in a show of force. In August, the violence claimed the life of anti-graft and anti-cartel presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, mowed down in a barrage of submachine-gun fire after a campaign speech. He had been polling in second place. A state of emergency was declared after former journalist Villavicencio's assassination, and Noboa and Gonzalez both campaigned and voted, in bullet-proof vests and with heavy security details. On Sunday, Noboa told supporters in his home town of Olon in the southwest his goal was "to restore peace... to bring back education to the youth" and create jobs. 'Destroyed' country Ecuadorans voted for 10 hours Sunday with no reports of violence, watched over by some 100,000 police and soldiers. "May we elect the best president because (he or she) will govern a country that is destroyed... to address all these problems such as insecurity," Indigenous voter Ramiro Duchitanga told AFP in Cuenca in Ecuador's south. "It is a critical election," added Freddy Escobar, a popular 49-year-old singer in Quito, citing crime as his main worry. "I am voting in fear, not knowing what will happen." The main concerns of Ecuadorians, according to opinion polls, are crime and violence in a country where the murder rate quadrupled in the four years to 2022. Noboa, who obtained some 52 per cent of the vote according to a near-complete count, was elected to only 16 months in office to complete the term of incumbent Guillermo Lasso, who called a snap vote to avoid possible impeachment for alleged embezzlement. Under the law, Noboa can run again for the 2025-29 presidential term, and the one after that. Both runoff candidates were relative unknowns in politics. Noboa is the son of one of Ecuador's richest men, who himself has five failed presidential bids to his name. The president-elect, whose only political experience is two years as a lawmaker, calls himself "center-left" but embraces neoliberal economic thinking. He ran on the ticket of the brand-new National Democratic Action alliance, which incorporates parties from the centre and left of the political spectrum. Ecuador has a poverty rate of 27 per cent, with a quarter of the population unemployed or holding down an informal job. Opinion polls list unemployment as voters' second concern. Noboa reiterated Sunday that he intends to "give progress to a country... that has all the elements to be a global example." Gonzalez was the handpicked candidate of socialist ex-president Rafael Correa, who governed from 2007 to 2017 and lives in exile in Belgium to avoid serving an eight-year prison term for graft -- another major concern in the country. From eight candidates, Gonzalez took the most votes in the first round in August with 34 per cent, followed by Noboa with 23 per cent. On Sunday, she offered her "profound congratulations" to Noboa, "because this is democracy." Addressing supporters in Quito, Gonzales also said she would not be claiming fraud. With 13 lawmakers in his corner out of 137 in parliament, Noboa will not have an absolute majority backing his legislative projects, and with only 16 months in office, will face an uphill battle to push through any reforms, analysts say. Voting is compulsory for 13.4 million eligible voters in the country of about 18 million, and the election authority said turnout was above 82 per cent. After images on social media showed a person appearing to fill out multiple ballots in favour of Noboa, the head of the National Electoral Commission, Diana Atamaint, promised an "immediate" investigation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President-elect Noboa vows to 'restore peace' to violence-plagued Ecuador

Ecuadoreans will choose their next president on Sunday, weighing pledges to improve the economy and control a spiralling security situation from a businessman who is heir to a banana fortune and a leftist who would be the country's first woman leader.

Voters' top concerns largely centre on the economy - which has struggled since the coronavirus pandemic and motivated many thousands of Ecuadoreans to migrate - and rising crime, including increases in murders, robberies and prison riots.

The violence, which the outgoing government blames on drug gangs, reached a crescendo during the campaign with the murder of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio, who was shot dead while leaving a Quito campaign event in August.

Business scion Daniel Noboa, 35, has led recent polling, but at least two surveys put voting intention for him and Luisa Gonzalez, a protégé of former President Rafael Correa, within the margin of error.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-drugs-gang-warfare-and-corruption-transformed-ecuador-625424">Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder</a>

Gonzalez, 45, and a former lawmaker, won 34 per cent&nbsp;of the vote in the first round.

She has said she would bring back the popular social spending which characterised Correa's decade in power, pledging free medicine, increased worker protections and direct aid to those in need.

She also has promised to use $2.5 billion from international reserves to shore up the economy.

Noboa, also an ex-lawmaker and who has promised job creation - especially for young people - was a surprise entrance to the run-off, winning 23 per cent&nbsp;in the first round.

He is the son of multimillionaire banana magnate Alvaro Noboa, who himself ran unsuccessfully for president numerous times.

Outgoing President Guillermo Lasso called the election early to avoid impeachment on charges he disregarded warnings of embezzlement related to a contract at a state company. He has denied the charges.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Ecuador presidential elections clouded by violence

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The winner will govern only between this December and May 2025, when the victor of regularly-scheduled elections will take office.

<h2>TIGHT RACE</h2>

Many voters were still undecided in the final days of the campaign, according to pollsters.

A Noboa victory initially could be perceived as positive by investors, but longer-term market outlook would depend on who he appoints to top jobs, said Zulfi Ali, portfolio manager for PGIM.

"The market is going to look very closely at the policies, the initial statements, and also the composition of the cabinet, especially in Noboa's case," Ali said. "So while the first reaction is positive, because he's a pro-business candidate, pro-business and pro-markets can mean two different things."

Gonzalez has said Correa would be her top economic advisor, while both candidates have said they would balance compliance with the terms of Ecuador's foreign debt with the needs of the population.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-third-political-leader-killed-in-a-week-after-presidential-hopefuls-assassination-625774">Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination</a>

On security, Gonzalez has pledged to build a new prison outside Guayaquil and take back the country from criminals, while Noboa has said the most dangerous convicts should be held on prison boats and that he will use technology to fight crime.

Both have pledged to beef up security at ports and airports, hot spots for drug smuggling.

Gonzalez enjoys the robust backing of Correa's Citizens' Revolution party, while Noboa formed his own party, National Democratic Action.

Both candidates have tried to woo young people during the campaign's final days. About a quarter of the 13 million Ecuadoreans obliged to vote are between the ages of 18 and 29. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Ecuadoreans will choose their next president on Sunday, weighing pledges to improve the economy and control a spiralling security situation from a businessman who is heir to a banana fortune and a leftist who would be the country's first woman leader.

Ecuadoreans will choose their next president on Sunday, weighing pledges to improve the economy and control a spiralling security situation from a businessman who is heir to a banana fortune and a leftist who would be the country's first woman leader. Voters' top concerns largely centre on the economy - which has struggled since the coronavirus pandemic and motivated many thousands of Ecuadoreans to migrate - and rising crime, including increases in murders, robberies and prison riots. The violence, which the outgoing government blames on drug gangs, reached a crescendo during the campaign with the murder of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio, who was shot dead while leaving a Quito campaign event in August. Business scion Daniel Noboa, 35, has led recent polling, but at least two surveys put voting intention for him and Luisa Gonzalez, a protégé of former President Rafael Correa, within the margin of error. ALSO READ | Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder Gonzalez, 45, and a former lawmaker, won 34 per cent of the vote in the first round. She has said she would bring back the popular social spending which characterised Correa's decade in power, pledging free medicine, increased worker protections and direct aid to those in need. She also has promised to use $2.5 billion from international reserves to shore up the economy. Noboa, also an ex-lawmaker and who has promised job creation - especially for young people - was a surprise entrance to the run-off, winning 23 per cent in the first round. He is the son of multimillionaire banana magnate Alvaro Noboa, who himself ran unsuccessfully for president numerous times. Outgoing President Guillermo Lasso called the election early to avoid impeachment on charges he disregarded warnings of embezzlement related to a contract at a state company. He has denied the charges. ALSO WATCH | Ecuador presidential elections clouded by violence The winner will govern only between this December and May 2025, when the victor of regularly-scheduled elections will take office. TIGHT RACE Many voters were still undecided in the final days of the campaign, according to pollsters. A Noboa victory initially could be perceived as positive by investors, but longer-term market outlook would depend on who he appoints to top jobs, said Zulfi Ali, portfolio manager for PGIM. "The market is going to look very closely at the policies, the initial statements, and also the composition of the cabinet, especially in Noboa's case," Ali said. "So while the first reaction is positive, because he's a pro-business candidate, pro-business and pro-markets can mean two different things." Gonzalez has said Correa would be her top economic advisor, while both candidates have said they would balance compliance with the terms of Ecuador's foreign debt with the needs of the population. ALSO READ | Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination On security, Gonzalez has pledged to build a new prison outside Guayaquil and take back the country from criminals, while Noboa has said the most dangerous convicts should be held on prison boats and that he will use technology to fight crime. Both have pledged to beef up security at ports and airports, hot spots for drug smuggling. Gonzalez enjoys the robust backing of Correa's Citizens' Revolution party, while Noboa formed his own party, National Democratic Action. Both candidates have tried to woo young people during the campaign's final days. About a quarter of the 13 million Ecuadoreans obliged to vote are between the ages of 18 and 29. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ecuadoreans weigh economic, security pledges in presidential ballot

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