Published：Mar 3, 00:57Last updated：Mar 11, 23:48

US and Ecuador Expand Joint Crackdown on Organized Crime and Drug Cartels

Mar. 3, 2026 00:57

Ecuador announced joint operations with the United States targeting drug trafficking. The country is experiencing increased violence due to conflicts between criminal groups, leading to a surge in homicide rates.

Summarized

30News

20Media

Mar. 11, 2026 18:49

Ecuador's interior minister announced preparations for a large crackdown on criminal organizations, starting this weekend with logistical support from the United States. The operation aims to combat crime in the country, as reported on March 11, 2026.

Mar. 11, 2026 23:48

The FBI plans to establish an office in Ecuador to combat organized crime, reflecting increased cooperation with local authorities. Ecuador, once considered one of Latin America's safest countries, has become highly dangerous due to a violent turf war over the cocaine trade. The article was published on March 11, 2026. It highlights efforts to address crime and drug trafficking issues in Ecuador.

Ecuador and the United States have intensified their joint campaign against organized crime, drug trafficking, and violent narco-criminal groups, marking a new era of bilateral security cooperation. Since early March 2026, the partnership has evolved from intelligence sharing to direct military engagement, with a series of high-profile operations, expanded US logistical support, and plans for deeper law enforcement collaboration. These efforts underscore the urgency of restoring security in Ecuador, which has become a hotspot for violent turf wars and transnational criminal activity. Toronto Star+7

🚨 Escalating Military and Police Operations

Recent weeks have seen Ecuadorian forces, backed by US assistance, conduct targeted raids and patrols in both urban and rural areas. Notably, on March 6-7, 2026, a joint operation bombed a drug gang training camp in Sucumbíos, linked to the Border Commandos—a group formed by ex-Colombian rebels—and serving as a hideout for a leader known as Mono Tole. In Quito, soldiers carried out weapons and drug searches, using armored vehicles to disrupt cartel activities. These actions reflect a shift to more aggressive tactics, with the US providing both intelligence and operational support. TASS+2

🛡️ Major Offensive and US Logistical Support

Ecuador’s government announced a significant offensive targeting criminal organizations in three western provinces, scheduled for the upcoming weekend. The operation, unveiled by the interior minister on March 11, 2026, will leverage expanded US logistical backing. This marks a coordinated push to dismantle organized crime networks, with the US playing a key role in planning and execution. Toronto Star+1

🌎 International Cooperation and FBI Involvement

In a major development, the FBI plans to open an office in Ecuador to bolster efforts against organized crime. This move highlights the deepening partnership between US and Ecuadorian authorities and reflects the severity of Ecuador’s security crisis. Once among Latin America’s safest nations, Ecuador now faces escalating violence fueled by cocaine trafficking and cartel rivalries. The FBI’s presence is expected to enhance intelligence sharing and operational coordination. Le Monde+1

📈 Regional Impact and Future Outlook

The joint US-Ecuador crackdown is reshaping security dynamics in Latin America, with implications for neighboring countries and global drug routes. European arrests linked to Ecuadorian networks underscore the international scope of the threat. Success in these operations could set a precedent for future multinational collaborations, aiming to restore stability and curb the influence of powerful criminal organizations. Toronto Star+2

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