Fight breaks out in Ecuador prison and 15 deaths confirmed

• Massacre at Litoral Penitentiary Prison in Ecuador
• Crisis Challenges Noboa’s Government
• Gang Clashes and Chaos in Ecuador

In Ecuador’s largest prison, the Litoral Penitentiary, a violent riot among inmates resulted in 15 deaths and 14 injuries.

This unfortunate situation was reported by the state penitentiary agency.

This penitentiary, located in Guayaquil, is known for its dangerousness.

It has also been the scene of multiple tragedies; three years ago, the worst prison massacre in the country occurred there, resulting in 119 deaths.

CRISIS IN ECUADOR AFTER PRISON RIOT

The National Secretariat for the Attention to the Incarcerated attributed the events to «serious incidents among prisoners» without detailing the specific causes of the clash.

The Prosecutor’s Office announced on X (formerly Twitter) that it will bring charges against nine inmates, who will be accused of murder in connection with the recent events.

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To control the situation and prevent new altercations, a large contingent of police and military was deployed at the penitentiary, according to AP.

On the other hand, authorities assured that no escapes have been recorded.

They also said that surveillance is maintained in the various buildings of the prison, which houses approximately 10,000 inmates.

This new riot occurs amidst the efforts of President Daniel Noboa, who took office less than a year ago, to improve security in the country and seek re-election in next February’s elections.

Security has been one of the main promises of his government.

In January of this year, he declared a state of internal armed conflict, increasing the presence of military and police both in prisons and on the streets.

Ecuador is experiencing a wave of violence linked to disputes between local gangs and international cartels over the control of prisons.

As well as drug export routes and distribution territories within the country, AP points out.

Since 2021, confrontations in penal centers have left more than 400 dead, and this year there have been 5,717 homicides in the country.

This figure keeps Ecuador among the most violent countries in the region, with a homicide rate of 47.25 per 100,000 inhabitants.

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