Summary
The Ecuadorean government has sent over 75,000 police and soldiers to four provinces to fight drug gangs. These actions are part of efforts by President Daniel Noboa to reduce drug-related violence. Ecuador works with the US to stop cocaine from moving through the country.
Key Facts
- Ecuador sent more than 75,000 police officers and soldiers to fight criminal gangs in four provinces.
- A night-time curfew is in place in these areas.
- President Daniel Noboa took office in November 2023 and is working to reduce drug-related violence.
- Ecuador recorded a high murder rate in 2025 despite efforts to control violence.
- Noboa joined a US-led alliance of 17 countries to fight drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere.
- Ecuador's location makes it a key route for cocaine from Colombia and Peru.
- The US and Ecuador have started joint efforts to stop drug trafficking, including opening an FBI office in Ecuador.
- President Donald Trump hosted a summit to address cartel violence, which Noboa attended.
