Between March 16 and March 19, 43 people were detained in El Oro, Ecuador, for violating the night curfew imposed as part of a state of emergency. The curfew is also in effect in neighboring provinces such as Guayas, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and Los Ríos. The highest number of arrests occurred in Machala, where law enforcement responded to multiple violations, indicating a notable level of noncompliance in this district.

On March 16 alone, 20 arrests were made, with subsequent days totaling 5, 11, and 7 additional detentions. Alongside these arrests, police conducted interventions in properties suspected of being used by criminal groups, including one location that was identified as a potential site for kidnapping victims' confinement. This multifaceted approach illustrates a broad strategy to enforce the curfew and dismantle organized crime in the affected areas.

The operations carried out by the police in Machala highlight the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public order during a state of emergency. By targeting strategic sectors, the police aim not only to reduce the number of curfew violations but also to weaken criminal structures operating in the region. The implications of these actions may extend beyond immediate arrests, potentially leading to a safer environment for the local population if successful in curbing criminal activities.