Small town in Ecuador responds to surge of violence with war strategy | Manta: International

Violence is spiraling out of control in Ecuador, casting doubt on the government’s claims of handling the chaos. While violent deaths have decreased by 485 in 2024 compared to the same period last year, it’s important to note that 2023 marked the country’s most violent year with a record-high homicide rate. With 2,400 crimes in the first half of the year, security remains a pressing issue.

The Minister of Defense, Gian Carlo Loffredo, warned that the country is in a long-term war against violence, with innocent civilians becoming casualties. Recent incidents saw 127 people shot in a week, including 33 killed at home. The coastal cities bore the brunt of the violence, with perpetrators taking advantage of open windows to unleash gunfire.

Manta, a city on the Pacific coast, has become a hotspot for criminal activity, particularly in drug trafficking. A triple murder incident outside a circus further escalated security concerns, leading to the mobilization of security forces to combat the escalating violence.

Ecuadorians have consented to a VAT hike to bolster military efforts in addressing the growing insecurity gripping the nation.

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