Ecuadorean President Declares State of Emergency in Coastal Provinces Amid Drug Gang Violence

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has declared a 60-day state of emergency in five coastal provinces due to an "internal armed conflict" with drug trafficking gangs. The measure, announced in a decree, allows for the deployment of police and military forces to conduct tactical combat operations against organized armed groups in the provinces of El Oro, Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi, and Santa Elena.

This is the second security-based emergency declaration by Noboa, who took office in November 2023 on promises to address the deteriorating security situation in the country. Ecuador has seen a spike in violent deaths and other crimes, which the government blames on drug trafficking gangs. In January, the country witnessed a dramatic invasion of a television station and the mass hostage-taking of prison guards.

Why this matters: The state of emergency highlights the growing security challenges faced by Ecuador due to the influence of drug trafficking organizations. The violence and instability threaten the safety of citizens and undermine the country's efforts to combat organized crime.

The police and armed forces will be deployed in the affected provinces to carry out tactical operations aimed at combating the armed groups. "The measure will allow the deployment of police and military forces for tactical operations to address the armed conflict with drug trafficking gangs in the affected regions," the decree stated.

The recent surge in violence, including the invasion of a television station and mass hostage-taking of prison guards, has been attributed to drug trafficking gangs by the government. Noboa's administration sees the state of emergency as a necessary step to restore order and security in the coastal provinces.

Since taking office in November, President Noboa has made addressing the country's worsening security situation a top priority. The state of emergency declaration demonstrates his government's commitment to tackling the violence and crime associated with drug trafficking organizations head-on. The deployment of police and military forces is expected to bolster security efforts in the affected regions and send a strong message to the criminal groups operating there.

Key Takeaways

• Ecuador's president declares 60-day state of emergency in 5 coastal provinces.
• Measure allows deployment of police and military to combat drug trafficking gangs.
• Ecuador has seen spike in violence, including TV station invasion and prison hostage-taking.
• State of emergency aims to restore order and security in affected regions.
• President Noboa prioritizes addressing worsening security situation in the country.