In a decisive move, Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, has launched new emergency protocols.
These actions span five provinces, targeting El Oro, Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi, and Santa Elena. Both military and police forces will increase their presence significantly.
The need for these measures stems from a spate of violent incidents.
Notably, these include a televised assault and hostage situations involving prison staff. Drug cartels, heavily linked to these events, are the focus of the crackdown.
In retaliation, Noboa’s government has intensified security efforts. The aim is to dismantle these notorious criminal networks.
The emergency decree significantly extends its reach, suspending certain civil liberties, such as the right to the inviolability of one’s home.
As a result, security forces can now conduct searches and arrests in private residences, targeting suspected criminals.
These measures are part of a larger strategy by President Noboa, who assumed office on November 23, 2023.
Since taking office, he has focused on tackling the high levels of delinquency that plague the nation.
Furthermore, by January 9, following his extensive emergency declaration, Noboa identified 22 groups as terrorist organizations.
Groups such as Los Choneros and Los Lobos are now officially recognized as such.
This marks a significant step in combating both political violence and criminal dominance.
Later, on April 7, Noboa declared an “internal armed conflict.” This declaration highlights the ongoing severe challenges in restoring order and safety.
As elections loom, these efforts are crucial for stabilizing the nation.
Background
Back on April 20, President Daniel Noboa already took a bold step to stabilize Ecuador, declaring another emergency.
He addressed a severe energy shortfall and rising security threats. Since his November start, Noboa has tackled these critical issues proactively, starting with security.
Consequently, Noboa ordered the military and police to protect energy infrastructure. A published decree confirmed this during the 60-day emergency.
A drought has intensified the energy crisis by affecting the hydroelectric dams, which supply most of Ecuador’s electricity.
This situation forced the government to ration power. Noboa ensured the continuity of electricity by authorizing military and police deployments to protect critical infrastructure.