The Guayaquil Fire Department reported that a major fire occurred on the night of March 20 at a warehouse located in the Gallegos Lara cooperative in northern Guayaquil. The event was addressed under a level 2 fire alarm, prompting the mobilization of additional resources due to the fire's magnitude. Official reports indicated that 55 firefighters were involved in combating the flames, ensuring proper ventilation and cooling of the affected structure until full containment was achieved by approximately 8:00 AM the following day.

According to authorities, the response team utilized nine fire units, a water tanker, a ladder truck, an ambulance, and a specialized vehicle for supplying autonomous breathing equipment. Their collective actions prevented the spread of the fire to nearby buildings, safeguarding them from potential damage. This incident has raised concerns about possible extortion, suggesting that the fire may not have been accidental and instead could be linked to criminal activities targeting local businesses.

The implications of this fire extend beyond immediate property damage, as it highlights broader issues of safety and security within the area. If investigations confirm extortion as a motive, it might signal a troubling trend affecting local cooperatives and businesses in Guayaquil. The incident calls for increased vigilance from both authorities and the community to address the underlying threats posed by organized crime, ensuring that local enterprises can operate without fear of intimidation or violence.