Ecuador’s Holy Week Violence Surges Amid Criminal Gangs and Extortion Cases

During Holy Week, Ecuador experienced a significant increase in violence, with the president declaring an internal armed conflict on January 9. This was followed by three massacres that resulted in the deaths of 17 people and injuries to several others. The Attorney General’s Office issued a statement warning about criminal organizations attempting to destabilize the country and hinder ongoing investigations, such as the Metastasis Case.

The state of emergency, initially imposed for 60 days in January, was extended by the president on March 8 for an additional 30 days. Despite militarization of the streets in violent cities to combat gangs, criminal activity has persisted, leading to a new wave of violence over the weekend. From January to March 2024, instances of extortion and kidnapping have increased across the country. In Guayaquil alone, extortion cases have quintupled from the previous year.

Over the weekend, three massacres occurred, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. The first massacre involved Ecuadorian tourists who were kidnapped and later found dead with gunshot wounds. The second incident took place during a volleyball game in Guayaquil, where multiple individuals were shot and killed. The third attack occurred in the Fort, where individuals were fired upon by gunmen on motorcycles.

The ongoing violence has raised concerns about the security situation in Ecuador, with experts noting different dynamics of violence in various regions of the country. The Metastasis Case, which investigates organized crime and corruption, has not directly translated into street violence. The government continues to address the challenges of criminal activity and violence in the country.