Judge in Manabí Receives Death Threat: Association of Magistrates Rejects Intimidation
A judge in Manabí, Ecuador, received a death threat, which has prompted a strong condemnation from the magistrates' association.
On March 11, a judge from the Judicial Function in Manabí was threatened with death in Manta. The incident involved a menacing pamphlet, two ballistic indicators, and a severed pig's head left outside the judge's home, as reported by the National Police. Authorities confirmed the receipt of a death threat directed at the magistrate and found additional evidence, prompting a swift police response to secure the area and collect evidence.
Police responded quickly to the scene, arriving just minutes after the threat was reported. Upon arrival, they confirmed the presence of a pamphlet containing explicit death threats and noted the unusual and grotesque symbolism of a pig's head, which is often used in intimidation tactics in various contexts. The area was cordoned off to preserve crucial evidence for further investigation, and specialized units were called in to assist in gathering the evidence accurately.
This incident raises serious concerns about the safety of judicial authorities in Ecuador, reflecting a broader pattern of intimidation and violence against legal professionals. The Association of Magistrates has publicly condemned the threats, emphasizing the need for protection for judges and their families, and highlighting the urgent need for state measures to ensure the safety and independence of the judiciary amidst rising violence against public servants in the country.