Guayaquil, Ecuador – Eight people were killed and eight others injured during an armed attack in the coastal city of Guayaquil, the Interior Ministry reported. This incident is the latest in a series of violent events that have plagued the South American country.
According to witnesses, the attack occurred around 7 p.m. local time in the southern neighborhood of Guasmo when armed individuals arrived in a vehicle and opened fire on a group of people. Two individuals were killed on the spot, while six others succumbed to their injuries after being taken to a health center for treatment.
Authorities have not yet identified the group responsible for the attack, which is the second mass killing to occur in as many days. The previous day, five individuals who had been kidnapped were found dead in the coastal province of Manabi, allegedly as a result of a local drug-trafficking dispute.
Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, addressed the recent violence on social media, emphasizing the need to continue the fight against narcoterrorism. He highlighted the importance of maintaining security operations and implementing curfews in high-incidence areas like Guayaquil.
The surge in violent attacks in Ecuador has prompted the government to declare a state of emergency, allowing for a heightened security presence in the country. Despite efforts to combat the escalating violence, Ecuador’s homicide rate remains one of the highest in the region, with over 40 violent deaths per 100,000 inhabitants reported at the end of 2023.
In the midst of these challenges, Ecuadorian officials continue to grapple with the rise of organized crime and drug-related violence, seeking to address the root causes of the issue. The recent attacks serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against criminal elements in the country, urging authorities to take decisive action to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.