22 dead amid gang infighting in Guayaquil, Ecuador

A deadly turf war between rival factions of a gang in Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil, has resulted in nearly two dozen deaths, authorities confirmed on Friday. The violent clashes, which took place in the northern neighborhood of Nueva Prosperina, involved members of the criminal group Los Tiguerones, according to local police chief Pablo Davila.

“Yesterday criminals killed each other in these certain parts of town,” Davila stated. “The problem is that they know each other, they know where they live, and they’re fighting over who has power over that territory.”

In response to the escalating violence, police launched a targeted offensive, conducting approximately 200 searches and confiscating a significant amount of firearms and ammunition. Fourteen individuals, including two minors, were apprehended in connection with the clashes.

Authorities revealed that several of those involved in the violence had prior criminal records, with offenses ranging from robbery to drug trafficking. The government has intensified its efforts in recent weeks to combat criminal activity in Ecuador’s most volatile areas, as part of President Daniel Noboa’s crackdown on drug-trafficking gangs.

Los Tiguerones and similar groups have been labeled as terrorist organizations by the government, prompting a swift and aggressive response to maintain law and order. President Noboa, who is currently campaigning for re-election in an upcoming runoff vote in April, has pledged unwavering support for military and police forces in their efforts to combat gang-related violence.

“Defend the country, I will defend you,” Noboa affirmed, emphasizing the importance of protecting citizens and maintaining security in the face of escalating criminal activity. The government’s decisive actions underscore its commitment to eradicating gang violence and ensuring the safety of Ecuadorian communities.

The harrowing events in Guayaquil serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by organized crime and the critical need for robust law enforcement measures. As the nation grapples with the repercussions of gang warfare, authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and peace, determined to bring an end to the cycle of violence that threatens the safety and well-being of Ecuadorian citizens.