Ecuador descended into turmoil after the escape of Los Choneros gang leader Jose Adolfo Macias Villamar, alias “Fito,” from La Regional prison in Guayaquil. Gang members, attempting to take hostages, stormed a television channel during a live broadcast, leading to the detainment of 13 individuals by police.
Reports reveal a wave of violence across eight states, tallying at least 23 violent incidents. Rioting erupted in multiple prisons as chaos unfolded. Police confirmed 8 fatalities and 3 injuries in Guayaquil, along with 2 security guards’ “brutal” killings in Nobol. Armed gang members also held 7 police officers hostage, set police vehicles ablaze, and triggered explosions across several cities.