Ecuador's National Court has communicated with Panama, offering necessary guarantees for the extradition of businessman Leonardo Cortázar, who is one of the seven individuals facing charges in the 'Encuentro' organized crime case. Detained since March 20, 2025, Cortázar was arrested by Interpol under a red notice due to his alleged involvement in criminal activities. His defense team expects that the extradition will be concluded within one to two weeks, indicating a prompt resolution to this high-profile legal matter.

In discussions regarding his current situation, Gustavo García, Cortázar's lawyer in Ecuador, has reported that despite the legal proceedings, Cortázar is reportedly maintaining a calm demeanor while in custody in Panama. His defense claims that he has not yet been officially informed of Panama's extradition decision but has been undergoing medical examinations to ensure his well-being. This suggests that health assessments are an integral part of the extradition protocol, which may affect the timeline and conditions of his transfer back to Ecuador.

The case highlights the ongoing collaboration between Ecuadorian and Panamanian authorities in dealing with organized crime and extradition procedures. Given the backdrop of increasing international cooperation in law enforcement, the resolution of Cortázar's extradition may set a precedent for similar cases in the future. Ecuador's government is expected to finalize the extradition process within the stipulated 30 days, making it a significant development in the country's fight against organized crime.