Authorities in Ecuador have confirmed the arrest of four individuals linked to a deadly attack by gunmen at a cockfighting venue, resulting in the deaths of 12 people.
During police raids in the north-western Manabí province on Friday, authorities confiscated weapons along with replica police and army uniforms. This operation took place just one day after an attack occurred in the rural community of La Valencia.
Video footage circulating on social media captured the moment gunmen stormed the ring and began firing, prompting panicked spectators to seek shelter.
Local media reports indicate that the assailants, donning counterfeit military attire, are believed to be affiliated with a criminal gang whose adversaries were present at the cockfight.
The provincial authorities have initiated a criminal investigation.
Reports indicate that approximately 20 criminal gangs are currently active in the Latin American nation, competing for dominance over key drug trafficking routes.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has stated that approximately 70% of the global cocaine supply now passes through Ecuador’s ports en route to the United States and Europe.
Authorities report that the drug is being smuggled into Ecuador from neighboring Colombia and Peru, which are recognized as the world’s two largest producers of cocaine.
In January, the number of murders reached 781, marking it as the deadliest month in recent history. A significant number of these cases were connected to the illicit drug trade.
