Ecuador President Grants Amnesty to Security Forces Amid Drug…

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has implemented a blanket amnesty for security forces combatting drug cartels in Guayaquil, following violent gang clashes that resulted in multiple fatalities. As he campaigns for reelection, Noboa emphasizes a strong stance against organized crime, while his rival questions human rights issues linked to this approach. With rising homicide rates, Ecuador grapples with severe violence fueled by transnational drug trafficking.

On Friday, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa proclaimed a preemptive amnesty for security forces engaged in combating drug cartels, particularly in the troubled port city of Guayaquil. This decision follows violent clashes that resulted in 22 fatalities, underscoring the significant threat posed by organized crime in the region.

Since assuming office in 2023, President Noboa has been campaigning for an additional four-year term in the upcoming presidential runoff election on April 13. His platform prominently features a firm stance against drug cartels, which have transformed Ecuador from one of Latin America’s safer nations into one of its most dangerous.

In a dire incident on Thursday, 22 individuals were killed, and three others were injured due to conflicts between rival gangs, notably Los Tiguerones, in Guayaquil’s Nueva Prosperina neighborhood. Noboa announced through the social media platform X that a presidential pardon has been granted to all police and military personnel active in that area, emphasizing their need to act decisively and without fear of repercussions.

Noboa declared, “Defend the country and I will defend you,” reinforcing his commitment to supporting law enforcement. He narrowly won the first round of elections on February 9 against his leftist rival, Luisa Gonzalez, garnering 44.15 percent of the vote.

Gonzalez has criticized alleged human rights violations by security forces during the anti-cartel efforts, proposing a more compassionate response to the crisis. Meanwhile, investigations are underway concerning military personnel linked to the gruesome murder of four boys in December, raising concerns about accountability.

Ecuador faces increasing violence attributed to the influence of transnational cartels utilizing its ports, like Guayaquil, to transport cocaine to the United States and Europe. Homicide rates have surged dramatically from six per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 to an alarming 47 in 2023.

In light of ongoing violence, Noboa’s campaign has intensified, advocating for enhanced security measures. He has expressed intentions to request assistance from allied nations, including the deployment of special forces to assist in combating these criminal organizations. A state of emergency has been declared in Guayaquil, part of a broader response throughout several provinces over the past two months.

The announcement of a blanket amnesty for security forces reflects Ecuador’s escalating struggle against drug cartels, particularly in crime-ridden areas like Guayaquil. President Noboa’s commitment to a strong response is evident as his administration faces intense scrutiny regarding human rights concerns. As the violence continues, the effectiveness of his policies and the potential involvement of international aid remain pivotal in addressing the growing crisis.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr