Ecuador’s President Grants Pardons to Security Forces After Deadly Guayaquil Attack

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has granted pardons to police and military responding to an attack that killed 22 in Guayaquil. The attack is linked to gang disputes, prompting law enforcement actions and raids. Noboa’s administration has faced criticism for its hardline security measures as the country grapples with escalating violence and prepares for elections.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has extended preemptive pardons to police and military personnel involved in responding to a deadly armed attack in Guayaquil, which resulted in the deaths of at least 22 individuals. In a recent post on X, he emphasized the need for law enforcement to operate decisively, stating, “We need you to act decisively and without fear of reprisal. Defend the country, I will defend you.”

This marks a continuation of Noboa’s hardline stance towards security personnel in their fight against crime, as he has previously granted similar pardons before any wrongdoing has occurred. The fatal attack transpired across three locations in Guayaquil, with initial investigations indicating it stemmed from a profit-sharing dispute among factions of the Los Tiguerones criminal gang. Law enforcement has noted that many victims had criminal backgrounds linked to robbery and drug trafficking.

Following the assault, Ecuadorian authorities acted swiftly, conducting raids on multiple homes and arresting 14 individuals while confiscating weapons and ammunition. Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador, continues to grapple with severe violence driven by the drug trade, recording close to 2,000 homicides in 2024.

Since taking office in 2023, Noboa has been focused on addressing the escalating security crisis, implementing states of emergency and labeling 22 criminal organizations as terrorists, an approach that has faced criticism from some human rights groups. Amidst this turmoil, Noboa campaigns for a second term, with a critical second-round election looming against leftist contender Luisa González as Ecuador decides whether to continue his policies.

In conclusion, President Daniel Noboa’s recent actions reflect a firm stance on Ecuador’s ongoing security crisis, particularly after the tragic attack in Guayaquil. By granting pardons to police and military personnel, he aims to empower law enforcement in combating rampant crime. The nation stands at a crucial juncture as it prepares for an upcoming election that will determine the future direction of its security policies amidst significant challenges involving drug-related violence.

Original Source: www.cnn.com