Ecuador Declares State of Emergency in 9 Provinces, 3 Municipalities Amid Rising Violence

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared a new state of emergency for 60 days in nine provinces and three municipalities, following a surge in criminal violence that has led to serious internal disturbances, according to local media reports.

The decree, signed by the president on Wednesday, entered into force on Thursday. President Noboa said the decision aims to reduce severe violence, neutralize current or imminent threats, and dismantle criminal organizations.

According to reports from the National Police, 1,232 cases of intentional homicide were recorded in the nine affected provinces between November 1 and December 23 of last year.

APS