President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador addressed the public after a dramatic flare-up of violence linked to the country’s most powerful crime organization. He publicly invited Fabricio Colon Pico, the alleged leader of Los Lobos, to surrender without conditions, emphasizing that the terms of any surrender would be dictated by law and the people of Ecuador, not by criminals. The remark was reported by TASS and echoed the government’s position that security and the rule of law must prevail over criminal intimidation.
The president’s response came in the wake of a video circulating on social media in which Pico appeared to claim he would surrender if his life could be guaranteed. Noboa’s reply reinforced the message that life safety protections are to be guaranteed under the lawful processes of the state, not as concessions from those accused of criminal activity. This stance underscores Ecuador’s commitment to resolving the conflict through formal governance channels and the criminal justice system, while safeguarding the rights of all citizens involved.
Earlier, amid ongoing unrest, the country’s security forces conducted major operations aimed at restoring order. The Armed Forces and National Police carried out raids that led to the detention of 329 individuals suspected of criminal involvement. The scope of these operations indicated a broad mobilization of state power to disrupt criminal networks and restore public safety across multiple regions.
Jaime Vela Eraso, who heads the joint command of Ecuador’s armed forces, provided an update on the outcome of these operations, noting that 61 weapons of various calibers were seized as part of the crackdown. The seizures represented a tangible disruption of the arms available to organized crime and highlighted the ongoing efforts to prevent violence and protect communities. These results reflect a sustained strategy to reduce crime by targeting both individuals and the tools they use to commit offenses.
The international reaction to the unfolding events has included cautious support from partners observing the security situation in Ecuador. In the United States, officials acknowledged the consequences of the unrest and welcomed steps toward stabilizing the internal security environment. This sentiment aligns with shared regional interests in maintaining lawful governance, preventing violence, and supporting democratic institutions in the Western Hemisphere. The collaboration in intelligence sharing, border security, and law enforcement demonstrates a broader commitment to regional stability and the rule of law, even as Ecuador navigates complex domestic challenges.
Analysts note that the current approach—combining a firm stance against criminal groups with a clear commitment to due process—seeks to deter future violence while ensuring accountability within constitutional frameworks. The situation also tests the capacity of Ecuador’s institutions to sustain aggressive policing without compromising civil liberties or triggering wider social tensions. Observers expect continued security operations, judicial proceedings, and ongoing communications from government officials as part of a long-term strategy to reduce organized crime activity and reinforce public confidence in state institutions. The unfolding story, documented by multiple sources and watchdogs, will likely influence policy discussions about crime prevention, regional security cooperation, and the balance between security measures and human rights in Ecuador. (Reported by TASS)