Air, sea, and land: this was the military control at the borders and main roads of the country during the holiday
During the holiday, the Armed Forces launched a nationwide operation by air, sea, and land to strengthen security on routes, beaches, and border crossings.
During the recent holiday, Ecuador's Armed Forces implemented a comprehensive national security operation across air, sea, and land to enhance safety along vital routes, beaches, and border crossings within the country. The initiative involved various security measures, including ground patrols, fixed and mobile checkpoints, aerial surveillance, maritime monitoring, and patrols in strategic areas using specialized units. The military presence was particularly concentrated in regions experiencing higher operational incidents and mobility corridors, aimed at preventing illicit activities and ensuring public safety.
Key provinces targeted during this operation included Carchi and Esmeraldas, where military efforts intensified in specific locations such as San Lorenzo and the international bridge at Mataje. These areas have been identified as sensitive corridors for illegal activities, prompting the Armed Forces to establish permanent checkpoints to monitor border crossings effectively. Additionally, the military increased security measures along the coastal regions of Manabí and Santa Elena, providing vigilant oversight at beaches, transportation terminals, and along significant roadways.
The operation's strategy combined various tactics for maximum effectiveness. Maritime patrols and aerial surveillance complemented land-based controls, while specialized units deployed in mobile patrols to cover sensitive zones. This multi-faceted approach not only aimed to enhance security during the holiday period but also to deter potential criminal activities, showcasing the government’s commitment to maintaining order and safety within the affected provinces and beyond, as public gatherings and travel increased during this time.