Norberto Vélez, the mayor of Rocafuerte in Ecuador, was the target of an armed attack on the night of February 8 while driving with his wife in a car. The attack occurred in the Cerro Guayabal area of the Manabí province as they were headed from Portoviejo to the Manta airport. Witnesses reported that the assailants fired at least two shots at their vehicle, prompting Vélez to speed away from the scene and contact the National Police for assistance.

Fortunately, both Vélez and his wife escaped unharmed thanks to their quick response and the timely arrival of law enforcement. Local authorities are still investigating the incident, and no arrests have been made while the motive for the attack remains unclear. The incident raises concerns regarding the safety of public officials in Ecuador, where violence has been a growing issue, particularly related to organized crime and political unrest.

In a statement released shortly after the attack, the Rocafuerte municipal government condemned the assault as a violent act that endangered the lives of the mayor and his wife. Such incidents highlight the risks faced by local leaders and may call for strengthened security measures to protect them from future threats. The attack has sparked discussions within the community about the implications for governance and the safety of its leaders, which could impact public trust in local institutions.