Ecuador’s President Grants Pardons Following Deadly Guayaquil Attack

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has granted pardons to police and military following a deadly attack in Guayaquil that killed at least 22 individuals. The attack is believed to be linked to gang conflicts, prompting Noboa to encourage decisive action from security forces. Amid significant drug-related violence in the country, Noboa’s hardline measures have been met with domestic and international criticism.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has extended preemptive pardons to police and military personnel following a violent attack in Guayaquil that resulted in at least 22 fatalities. In a communication posted on X, President Noboa implored security forces to act decisively, stating, “We need you to act decisively and without fear of reprisal. Defend the country, I will defend you.” This is not the first instance where Noboa has granted pardons to security officers combating escalating crime in Ecuador.

The assault in Guayaquil occurred on Thursday across three separate locations, injuring at least six individuals. Authorities attribute the attack to internal conflicts within the Los Tiguerones criminal gang, stemming from disputes over profit-sharing. Police reports indicate that numerous victims had prior charges related to robbery, drug trafficking, and weapons possession.

In the aftermath, Ecuadorian authorities executed raids on several residences, resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals along with the confiscation of weapons and ammunition, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defense. Guayaquil, recognized as Ecuador’s most populous city, has faced significant challenges amid an alarming surge in drug-related violence, with nearly 2,000 recorded homicides in 2024 alone.

Since assuming presidency in 2023, Noboa has been proactive in addressing the nation’s security crisis by declaring multiple states of emergency and labeling 22 organized groups as terrorist organizations. These measures have drawn criticism from various human rights organizations both domestically and internationally.

Amidst this turbulent backdrop, President Noboa’s campaign for a second term is underway after failing to achieve a majority in the first electoral round last month. The follow-up election will determine whether the country will continue with Noboa’s current policies or shift towards an alternative represented by leftist candidate Luisa González.

In conclusion, President Daniel Noboa’s recent actions to bolster police and military authority following a deadly attack in Guayaquil underscore the severity of Ecuador’s security crisis. With ongoing violence fueled by organized crime, the president’s hardline measures and pardons for security personnel reflect an urgent response to restore order. As the nation nears a critical electoral decision, these developments will likely influence the future of Ecuador’s governance and security policies.

Original Source: www.cnn.com