Civilians faced attacks, abuse in joint US-Ecuador operations, HRW says
Summary
A Human Rights Watch report says civilians in Ecuador suffered abuse during joint military operations by the US and Ecuador aimed at fighting organized crime. The report highlights cases of torture, unlawful detention, and attacks on fishermen, and calls on the US Congress to increase oversight of President Donald Trump’s security cooperation with Ecuador.Key Facts
- The US and Ecuador carried out joint military operations near the Colombia border between March 1 and 6, 2026.
- Four dairy farm workers were detained and allegedly tortured by Ecuadorian soldiers; no charges were made against them.
- Evidence showed the targeted properties were not camps for armed groups but included an active dairy farm and abandoned locations.
- Human Rights Watch reviewed photos, videos, satellite images, medical records, and other documents to investigate the incidents.
- The US has provided equipment, training, intelligence, and direct military support to Ecuador in crime-fighting efforts under President Trump.
- Ecuadorian fishermen near the Galapagos Islands were attacked between January and March 2026; one boat disappeared with 8 crew members.
- Crews of attacked fishing vessels said armed personnel in US military-style uniforms detained them and handed them over to the Salvadoran Coast Guard.
- Human Rights Watch calls for US Congress to demand more transparency and safeguards in the US-Ecuador security partnership.
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