Ecuador's Minister of Government, Nataly Morillo, has publicly criticized the recent eviction of 140 military personnel from the Special Forces Group No. 26 Cenepa from their position at the Quevedo Trade Chamber's fairground in Los Ríos province. This decision was announced on March 16, 2026, and Morillo deemed it unacceptable, especially given the ongoing security crisis in the region. The military had been stationed there for four months as part of efforts to combat organized crime during a declared state of emergency.

The Minister emphasized that removing armed forces from such a strategic point during a time of heightened national insecurity poses serious implications for governance and public safety. In her statements, Morillo warned that those responsible for undermining the State's presence during this critical period would need to be accountable to the nation. This reflects a growing concern within the Ecuadorian government about maintaining a robust response to organized crime in the area.

This incident comes at a time when crime rates in Ecuador, particularly in regions like Los Ríos, have escalated significantly. The eviction raises questions about the government's commitment to security and the effectiveness of its strategies to combat crime. As the situation develops, it is likely to provoke further discussions about national defense policy and the role of military forces in ensuring public safety in Ecuador.