Ecuador’s Security Forces Granted Amnesty Amid Rising Gang Violence

President Daniel Noboa has declared an amnesty for security forces in Guayaquil amid escalating violence from drug cartels. As he campaigns for re-election, Noboa stresses the need for decisive action against crime. His rival, Luisa Gonzalez, warns against potential human rights abuses. The crisis, exacerbated by rising homicide rates, necessitates urgent intervention, potentially involving international support.

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has announced a preemptive amnesty for security forces engaged in combatting drug cartels in Guayaquil, which has recently experienced significant violence, including the death of 22 individuals due to gang clashes. Noboa, who has been in office since 2023, is currently campaigning for re-election set for April 13. His platform emphasizes a strong stance against the drug trafficking organizations that have transformed Ecuador from a relatively peaceful nation to one significantly troubled by violence.

In response to the recent conflict involving rival factions of the prominent criminal gang Los Tiguerones in Guayaquil, Noboa stated on the social media platform X that all police and military personnel deployed in the Nueva Prosperina area would receive a presidential pardon. He expressed the necessity for security forces to operate without fear of repercussions, insisting they must act decisively against the cartels.

President Noboa has assured the security forces of his support, declaring, “Defend the country and I will defend you.” His political rival, Luisa Gonzalez, an attorney, has raised concerns regarding the potential human rights violations committed by the security forces amid this campaign against the drug cartels, advocating for a more humane approach to address the crisis.

The violence in Ecuador, largely driven by international drug trafficking cartels utilizing local ports for cocaine shipments, has led to a drastic increase in homicide rates – from six per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 to a staggering 47 in 2023. As the violence escalates, President Noboa’s rhetoric has continued to grow tougher, indicating his intention to enlist the aid of international special forces to bolster efforts in combating organized crime. The state of emergency persists in Guayaquil, where violence is rampant and the security situation remains dire.

In conclusion, President Daniel Noboa’s announcement of an amnesty for security forces in Ecuador reflects his administration’s aggressive approach to tackling escalating violence from drug cartels. With Guayaquil at the epicenter of this conflict, Noboa emphasizes the need for decisive action while facing criticism regarding human rights practices. The rising homicide rates signal a significant security crisis, prompting Noboa to seek international support to combat the influence of transnational cartels effectively.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr