A deadly prison riot erupted at the Machala men's facility in Ecuador's El Oro province, claiming fourteen lives and injuring more than ten inmates. The violence began during early Monday morning hours in the Zaruma section, where Los Lobos and Sao Box gang members engaged in brutal combat. Police Chief William Calle confirmed fourteen fatalities and fourteen wounded individuals from the confrontation. A corrections officer died during the melee, while two police sustained injuries and several others faced hostage situations. Nearly three hundred tactical personnel stormed the compound after receiving emergency alerts around 2 a.m., battling armed prisoners attempting escape.
Authorities successfully recaptured thirteen fleeing inmates and confiscated four weapons during the operation. The facility sits near Peru's border in southern Ecuador's coastal region. Recent developments show the United States designated both Los Lobos and Los Choneros as terrorist organizations earlier this month. Officials believe this classification will enhance bilateral cooperation against drug trafficking networks and organized criminal enterprises operating throughout the region.
Authorities successfully recaptured thirteen fleeing inmates and confiscated four weapons during the operation. The facility sits near Peru's border in southern Ecuador's coastal region. Recent developments show the United States designated both Los Lobos and Los Choneros as terrorist organizations earlier this month. Officials believe this classification will enhance bilateral cooperation against drug trafficking networks and organized criminal enterprises operating throughout the region.
