Summary
Ecuador's president announced that Wilmer "Pipo" Chavarria, the leader of one of the country's largest drug gangs, was captured in Spain. Chavarria, who led the gang called Los Lobos, was found in Malaga with the help of Spanish police. The arrest is part of Ecuador's efforts to combat crime and violence linked to drug trafficking.
Key Facts
- Wilmer "Pipo" Chavarria led Los Lobos, a major drug gang in Ecuador.
- He was captured in Malaga, Spain, with the assistance of Spanish police.
- The gang Los Lobos has been labeled a terrorist organization by Ecuador and the US.
- Chavarria had faked his death, changed his identity, and continued operations from Europe.
- Los Lobos has an estimated 8,000 members and is one of Ecuador's most powerful criminal groups.
- Violence and murders have increased in Ecuador due to competition among drug gangs.
- The US sanctioned Los Lobos in June 2024 for contributing to Ecuador's violence.
- Ecuador is considering allowing foreign military bases, like those from the US, to help tackle drug-related violence.
