Mar 16 • 14:08 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

With US support, Ecuador mobilizes 75,000 troops in 'war' against drug cartels

Ecuador has mobilized 75,000 military and police personnel to counter gangs and drug cartels, supported by the United States.

Ecuador has initiated a significant operation against drug cartels and organized crime, mobilizing 75,000 military and police forces for a two-week campaign. This initiative, which comes with the backing of the United States, aims to restore control over areas affected by drug-related violence and illegal mining. Interior Minister John Reimberg emphasized the large-scale nature of these operations, which will include strict curfews in targeted regions to enhance security and efficacy.

The operations are characterized as high-complexity missions involving coordinated efforts across land, air, and sea to retake territories from criminal gangs, as noted by Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo. The government is leveraging military intelligence to execute simultaneous operations designed to dismantle the infrastructure of these illicit organizations. This concerted approach reflects Ecuador's urgent response to escalating violence and its commitment to partnership with U.S. authorities in combating drug trafficking.

The mobilization also marks a critical moment in Ecuador's ongoing struggle against drug violence, which has surged in recent years amid growing influence from powerful narcotrafficking networks. With enforcement intensifying, it remains to be seen how effective these operations will be in curbing the activities of drug cartels and ensuring public safety, raising questions about the long-term impact on the region's stability and governance.

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