On February 13, 2023, authorities in Guayaquil, Ecuador, destroyed approximately 2.8 tons of cigarettes that had been smuggled into the country. This operation was conducted by the Customs Vigilance Corps and the National Intervention Directorate of the National Customs Service of Ecuador (Senae) as part of a series of clampdowns on illegal product imports. The destruction of the smuggled cigarettes was reported to have a commercial value of around $750,000, showcasing the scale of the illegal tobacco trade in the region.

The Senae has expressed serious concerns regarding the impact of such illegal products on the economy and public health. They pointed out that these smuggled cigarettes evade taxes and regulatory measures, which poses a significant risk to the health of Ecuadorians due to the lack of sanitary control during their importation. The authorities have emphasized their commitment to combating these activities to safeguard both the national economy and citizens' health.

Furthermore, the Senae mentioned that there are plans for future operations to continue the destruction of confiscated goods, indicating a proactive stance against smuggling and illegal trade practices. The ongoing efforts highlight the essential role of law enforcement in addressing such issues, which not only affect economic stability but also public health and safety in Ecuador.