Inés Manzano, the Minister of Environment and Energy in Ecuador, has publicly condemned the horrific act of animal cruelty involving the evisceration of a dolphin in Crucita during the Carnival holiday. She described the incident as "a shame" and emphasized that the government will not tolerate acts of cruelty against wildlife. This case highlights a serious concern regarding the treatment of animals within the country and the necessity for enforcement of wildlife protection laws.

The dolphin was reportedly dragged, mutilated, and eviscerated in front of numerous witnesses, including a police officer, which raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement in protecting wildlife. Manzano denounced the lack of action from those who were present and responsible for intervening. This incident has stirred outrage among local residents and animal advocates, sparking discussions on the responsibilities of individuals and authorities in protecting marine life.

In response to the incident, the Ministry of Environment has initiated an immediate investigation to identify the individuals involved and to understand why officers failed to act during the incident. Manzano has also filed a formal complaint with the appropriate authorities to ensure that legal proceedings are initiated against those responsible. This response indicates a push towards greater accountability in wildlife preservation efforts in Ecuador, reflecting broader societal concerns about environmental protection and animal rights.