On February 12, a violent incident in Santa Ana, Manabí, resulted in the deaths of six individuals and left one woman seriously injured. Early reports from the National Police indicated that several armed men entered a residence in the San Juan de las Cucarachas area, indiscriminately firing at those inside around 7:55 a.m. The attack not only shocked the local community but highlighted the ongoing issues of violence in Ecuador, particularly in Manabí, known for its struggles against crime.

Following the attack, the victims suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene. The injured woman was provided with initial medical care on-site and subsequently transported under police custody to a healthcare facility in Portoviejo. The police have established a security blockade and are offering a reward of $50,000 for information leading to the identification of the perpetrators, showcasing the urgency and seriousness of the situation.

Authorities from Criminalistics and the National Directorate of Crimes Against Life (Dinased) also arrived at the scene to collect ballistic evidence and witness testimonies. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the motives behind this massacre and bring justice to the victims, reflecting the intense security challenges facing Ecuador as it grapples with high rates of violence related to gang activity and drug trafficking.