In a significant operation on February 6, security forces uncovered a sophisticated logistics hub for organized crime buried underground in Manabí, Ecuador. The discovery included six clandestine hideouts in Playa Prieta, Portoviejo, where police not only found thousands of dollars in cash but also a complete cache of weapons, military-style clothing, and ammunition. The first hideout revealed $32,000 in cash along with an array of firearms and ammunition, hinting at the scale of organized crime operations in the region.

Investigation efforts continued as authorities located five additional hideouts roughly two kilometers from the first, all of which contained similar weaponry and police and military gear. In total, the operations revealed an alarming inventory of 52 submachine guns, 30 pistols, 21 revolvers, 12 shotguns, and nearly 10,000 rounds of various calibers of ammunition. The seizure did not stop there; authorities also confiscated 175 magazines, 60 ballistic vests, 20 telescopic sights, and five silencers, showcasing a well-equipped criminal organization in the area.

The findings also included tactical gear such as 30 pairs of handcuffs, 22 tactical helmets, six pairs of tactical boots, and 12 caps featuring the logo of the National Police. The existence of such an extensive arsenal and the operational capacity of these organized crime groups in Ecuador highlight significant challenges facing law enforcement. This operation serves as a crucial indicator of the escalating violence and criminal sophistication in the region, necessitating a more robust response from security forces.