The President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, stated that crime in the country has decreased by 40% following the implementation of a 15-day curfew in several provinces. This measure, according to Noboa, has been reflected in the reduction of crimes such as extortion and theft.
Amid questions regarding cooperation with the United States, the president defended that support in the fight against organized crime does not affect Ecuadorian sovereignty. This backing was recently formalized through a regional agreement to confront narcoterrorist groups, although it revealed divisions in the region, with the absence of countries like Mexico and Colombia.
Noboa also highlighted the government’s efforts, such as the destruction of nearly 60 clandestine airstrips and the capture of a high percentage of criminal leaders since he took office in November 2023. However, the impact of the curfew has raised doubts, as, although 1,283 people were arrested for violating it, only one key criminal target was captured.
Public perceptions are mixed. Some report a greater military presence and an apparent decrease in crimes, while others argue that violence has merely shifted to different hours, raising questions about the effectiveness of the measures adopted, as we reported in this note.
