Ecuador’s Gang Violence Epidemic: A Closer Look
By Ana María Roura, Daniel Wittenbeg & Blanca Moncada
GUAYAQUIL — Meet Paul, a member of one of Ecuador’s most violent criminal gangs. Paul, who has been involved with the gang since he was 15, paints a chilling picture of the dangerous world he inhabits.
“Things are dangerous right now. Death can come from anywhere,” Paul confesses, revealing the constant fear that haunts him. He believes he’s been on a rival group’s hit list for a year and a half, surviving only due to his mother’s prayers.
Paul’s story is just a glimpse into the dark reality of Ecuador’s gang violence, which has transformed the once-safe country into a war zone.
The Rise of Gangs in Ecuador
Paul’s journey into the gang life began at a young age, enticed by promises of respect and excitement. But what he found was a world of violence, fear, and constant movement to evade rival gang members.
Despite being considered one of the safest countries in the region, Ecuador has seen a drastic increase in violent crime, with the highest murder rate in Latin America. Gangs have played a crucial role in fueling this epidemic, engaging in drug trafficking, kidnappings, and territorial wars.
The Drug Trade’s Role in Ecuador’s Violence
The surge in gang violence in Ecuador is closely linked to the booming drug trade in the region. With cocaine production reaching record levels, international drug cartels have turned to Ecuador as a key distribution hub.
Gangs like Paul’s play a vital role in this illicit trade, smuggling drugs through the country’s ports and into the hands of international buyers. The coastguard’s efforts to combat drug trafficking are hindered by corruption and the constant threat of armed gang members.
Paul himself has transitioned from small-time drug dealing to trafficking large quantities of cocaine, risking his life and freedom in the process.
The Human Toll of Gang Violence
As the violence escalates, the lives of ordinary Ecuadorians are forever changed. Dr. Gabriela Almeida notes a rise in anxiety and panic attacks among her patients, reflecting the pervasive fear that grips the nation.
Prosecutors, tasked with bringing gang members to justice, have become prime targets for organized crime. The recent killings of six public prosecutors underscore the risks they face in their pursuit of justice.
Despite government efforts to combat the violence, the grip of organized crime on Ecuador remains strong. For Paul and others trapped in the cycle of gang violence, the future looks bleak.
