In Ecuador, a curfew has been imposed in four provinces as a part of the government's strategy to combat organized crime, mobilizing 75,000 security personnel in targeted operations. The initial enforcement period is set for two weeks, with an expected evaluation of its effectiveness by March 30. Although immediate results are not yet anticipated, the government initiated the curfew on the night of March 15, resulting in the arrest of 253 individuals nationwide during its first operation.

The Ministry of the Interior has indicated that not all individuals detained were criminals; some were simply members of the public who violated the curfew, which prohibits movement from 11 PM to 5 AM. The government has urged citizens to comply with the new restrictions, emphasizing that public cooperation is essential for the success of these security measures. Observers on social media have pointed out that some of those arrested were likely unaware or unintentional violators of the newly established rules.

This curfew is a significant measure in Ecuador's broader fight against crime and violence, reflecting a growing concern about security in the country. The government is hoping that the combined efforts of law enforcement and community cooperation will lead to a safer environment, and ongoing assessments will determine the long-term viability of such measures in addressing the challenges posed by organized crime in Ecuadorian society.