On the afternoon of Thursday, February 12, significant traffic congestion was reported in downtown Guayaquil as a result of road closures imposed by a protest and ongoing restrictions surrounding a structural fire at the Multicentro building. The local transit authority, Agencia de Tránsito y Movilidad (ATM), announced that 14 officers were deployed at key intersections, including Ayacucho and Capitán Nájera, to manage the situation and ensure pedestrian safety.

In response to the increased vehicular tension, approximately 35 motorcycles were stationed at various points to maintain traffic flow and manage the chaos. Officers were particularly concentrated at critical junctions like Primero de Mayo and Lorenzo de Garaycoa, where diversions were enforced due to the rally along Avenida 9 de Octubre. Witnesses noted long lines of cars moving at a crawl along Avenida Quito, further exacerbated by the central closures.

This event highlights ongoing issues in urban management and public demonstrations in Guayaquil, as traffic disruptions often accompany social actions. The authorities hope that the deployed measures would not only keep traffic manageable but also provide safety for demonstrators and the general public as they respond to the unfolding situation. As protests can escalate quickly, the presence of law enforcement is essential in maintaining order and minimizing disruptions in the city.