On February 20, at approximately 18:00, an alert was received regarding a suspected explosive device in the Sauces 9 neighborhood of northern Guayaquil. The device was reported to be located beneath a tree, just a few meters from the Linear Park, raising immediate concerns among local residents due to its proximity to public spaces. Police on the scene described the object as resembling a grenade, which initiated a swift response from law enforcement agencies.

Specialized personnel from the Grupo de Intervención y Rescate (GIR) arrived around 18:50, equipped with trained dogs to assess the device further. In the meantime, police cordoned off the area to ensure public safety, restricting access for pedestrians and nearby business activities. The situation caused alarm among local residents, many of whom watched anxiously as authorities handled the potential threat.

The presence of the suspect device near a bustling area with numerous restaurants and shops highlighted the risks of security threats in urban settings. The response was critical in managing the potential danger and ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors in Guayaquil, a city that has dealt with security issues in the past. Further assessments by the GIR were necessary to confirm the nature of the device and assess subsequent safety measures required in the area.