A regime of internal armed conflict has been declared in Ecuador, according to statements attributed to President Daniel Noboa. The declaration, reported by El Universo, signals a dramatic shift in the nation’s approach to public security and crime control.
The government described the move as a step to address serious security challenges, including the designation of more than 20 organized crime groups as terrorist organizations. The aim, as described, is to disrupt criminal networks and restore order across the country.
In recent days, reports from the capital and other cities described armed individuals forcefully entering media facilities. At TC Televisión, on a live broadcast, anchors were briefly held by intruders, and the full demands of the attackers remained unclear at the time of reporting. Such actions raised concerns about the level of threat faced by journalists and the safety of public communications infrastructure.
Security forces reports also indicated confrontations in public spaces, with officers sustaining gunfire during street operations. The violence contributes to a broader sense of insecurity in several urban areas, intensifying calls for decisive government action.
Earlier, President Noboa announced a state of emergency intended to stabilize prison facilities amid reports of disturbances and suspected escapes linked to organized crime. The situation highlighted strains within the penal system and underscored the urgency of comprehensive security measures.
Prison unrest appeared in multiple facilities across the country, with prison guards sometimes taken hostage during clashes. The unfolding events coincide with a notable rise in crime rates and public anxiety, prompting officials to pursue enhanced security protocols and interagency coordination.
Daniel Roy Gilchrist Noboa Azin is described as an Ecuadorian politician and businessman with strong ties to the banana industry. At 36, he stands as one of the youngest presidents in the nation’s history, and notably the youngest elected by popular vote. His ascent followed a path through the National Assembly, where he served from 2021 until the dissolution of the chamber under the muerte cruzada mechanism initiated by the previous administration. Before entering politics, Noboa held various roles within the family business, shaping a public image of business leadership blended with political ambition.
During the 2023 campaign, Noboa announced his candidacy through the National Democratic Movement. He faced Luisa González in the decisive round, where support fluctuated in the run-up to the vote. Ultimately, Noboa secured a narrow majority in the second round and began his term in October of that year, a historic moment for the nation.
As the administration implements its security strategy, Noboa remains among the youngest heads of state globally. The political landscape in Ecuador continues to recalibrate as the government addresses corruption concerns and seeks to strengthen institutions in the face of persistent security challenges.
There have been past accusations related to corruption involving former officials, with some figures seeking refuge abroad. The evolving political and security context in Ecuador remains closely watched by observers and citizens who hope for stability and transparent governance in the years ahead.