In Ambato, Ecuador, during the International Folklore Festival associated with the Fiesta de la Fruta y de las Flores (FFF), members of a visiting Mexican delegation reported that ten cell phones were stolen while they participated in the parade on February 15th. The phones were taken from a bag that was tied to the stage where the group was performing, indicating a brazen act of theft amid a public event.

Upon learning that the National Police had recovered some of the stolen phones, the delegation approached the Prosecutor's Office to facilitate the investigation and determine if any of the recovered devices belonged to them. They expressed their concern over the sensitive information contained on the phones, including digital flight tickets for their return to Mexico, making the recovery critically important for the affected individuals.

The local police in Tungurahua reported the arrest of several suspects in connection with this incident. This theft not only raises concerns about security at public events in Ecuador but also reflects the challenges faced by visiting delegations who may inadvertently become targets in a foreign environment.