In connection with the growing tension in some regions of the country, the government of Ecuador announced the introduction of a state of emergency in five provinces. President Daniel Noboa explained that this decision was taken because of the "internal armed conflict" that is taking place in some parts of the country.
A state of emergency will be in effect for the next 60 days in the provinces of El Oro, Guayas, Los Rios, Manabí and Santa Elena. In these regions, the presence of law enforcement agencies and military forces will be increased in order to fight against "organized armed groups".
In January 2024, the president of Ecuador designated 22 gangs as terrorist organizations and military targets as a result of the increase in security threats in the country, which is associated with the activity of drug-trafficking gangs. This led to mass riots and acts of violence, such as the seizure of a television station in the city of Guayaquil and incidents in prisons. In this regard, President Noboa announced the introduction of a state of emergency for 60 days.
