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The release of all hostages detained in Ecuadorian jails has brought a sense of relief to the nation. President Daniel Noboa has authorized the release of inmates from seven different regions, and according to the state agency in charge of prisons (SNAI), all personnel and guards who were held captive by inmates in Ecuadorian prisons were freed overnight from Saturday to Sunday. This is seen as a significant victory, as it signifies the successful conclusion of security protocols and joint work with the National Police and the Armed Forces.
In a statement issued by the authority, it was stated that the release of all detainees from different Deprivation of Liberty Centers (CPL) in the country, spanning from the northern border with Colombia to the southern border with Peru, has been verified by President Daniel Noboa, who himself was targeted by drug trafficking organizations just last week. The release of the hostages was met with expressions of gratitude, as captured in videos shared on social media platforms.
One video features a prison guard standing before his comrades, clutching an Ecuadorian flag as a symbol of freedom. He expressed his gratitude for the safe escape of everyone. Another video captures the moment a jail guard says “okay, okay, thanks” after being released on Saturday. These glimpses into the aftermath of the successful operation highlight the relief felt by the freed hostages.
Prior to this release, there were still 133 guards and 3 administrative staff held captive, in addition to the 41 individuals (24 guards and 17 workers) who were released on Saturday in coordination with the Catholic Church. However, other detainees had already been granted freedom. The jail administration reported 178 captives on Thursday, and it is estimated that approximately twenty groups use jails as a base to spread fear and enforce their brutal rule.
These recent events indicate a growing crisis in Ecuador’s prison system. With drug trafficking organizations retaliating against the strict measures implemented by the Noboa government, the nation has witnessed a wave of violence and chaos. The escape of Adolfo Macías, also known as “Fito,” the leader of the criminal faction called “Los Choneros,” triggered a series of violent incidents, resulting in almost 460 fatalities among prisoners. These incidents included prison riots, kidnappings of police officers, explosive attacks, and burned vehicles.
The government has recognized the severity of the situation and has taken immediate steps to address it. A six-hour curfew, starting at 11 pm local time, has been implemented nationwide along with a 60-day state of exception, including in jails. This allows the authorities to prioritize the capture of Fito and restore order in the prison system. The hunt for Fito has led to speculations that he may have crossed into Colombia, which is known for its vast coca fields. The Colombian Army is actively involved in the search for him.
Despite the challenges faced by the government, President Noboa remains resolute in his commitment to fighting against these criminal factions. In an interview with the BBC, he vowed not to back down in the face of mounting pressure and violence. “I believe that we will win, and I will not stop fighting until we do,” he asserted. The government is actively working towards constructing two “super-maximum” prisons with a combined capacity of nearly 3,000 to house the most dangerous offenders. The proposal for prison ships is also under consideration.
The crisis in Ecuador’s prisons serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of drug trafficking and organized crime in the region. For years, Ecuador served as a safe haven for drug traffickers, but recent developments have turned it into a stronghold for drug trafficking to the US and Europe. The escalation of violence and the rise in the murder rate underscore the urgency for the government to take decisive action to regain control and ensure the safety of its citizens.
In conclusion, the release of all hostages detained in Ecuadorian jails is a significant step towards restoring order and security in the nation. President Noboa’s authorization and the successful conclusion of security protocols have brought relief to the hostages and their families. However, the crisis in the prison system highlights the larger issue of drug trafficking and organized crime in Ecuador. The government’s commitment to fighting against these criminal factions is commendable, but it will require sustained efforts to overcome the challenges and ensure the safety of the country and its citizens.
