In a recent report from Ecuador's Secretariat for Risk Management, it was revealed that the Multicomercio shopping complex in Guayaquil has 100% of its permits listed as inactive or not renewed. This alarming finding comes in the wake of a significant fire that occurred on February 11, which caused substantial damage to the towers of the complex, built in the 1980s. The Municipality of Guayaquil had been asked for technical reports following the incident, leading to these findings regarding the status of the complex's operating licenses.

The risk management agency highlighted that the documentation received from the Municipality indicates serious oversight with formal notifications regarding these omissions. Following public insistence for clarification, a preliminary response from the Guayaquil mayor's office was received, which is expected to lead to increased scrutiny over the operational status of the Multicomercio complex. This could have further implications for safety regulations and enforcement in the area, especially after a public incident of safety failure such as a fire.

The situation raises significant concerns about compliance with safety standards and the role of local government in monitoring commercial establishments. The lack of active permits poses risk not only to the structure itself but also to the patrons and businesses operating within the complex. As grievance and safety protocols come into play, further investigations may be initiated to assess the overall safety framework surrounding commercial establishments in Guayaquil, ensuring accountability and safeguarding public welfare.