A violent incident in the coastal province of Guayas, Ecuador resulted in the death of at least eight people and left another eight injured. This attack took place on Saturday night in a country that has been under a state of emergency since January to combat rising violence.
According to a preliminary report from the Police, armed individuals arrived in a vehicle and opened fire on a group of people during a volleyball match. Two people died at the scene while six others succumbed to their injuries after being transferred to medical facilities. The total number of casualties was reported as 8 dead and 8 injured.
The attack occurred in the Mariuxi Febres Cordero sector, with residents being alarmed by the sound of gunshots. The injured individuals were taken to health centers under police protection. This incident adds to the growing violence in the province of Guayas, which is one of the most affected by such incidents in Ecuador.
Meanwhile, other violent events occurred during the Easter holiday weekend across Ecuador. Eleven people, including five minors, were kidnapped in Manabí province, with five adults found dead and the rest released. President Daniel Noboa condemned the violence and stated that it is a reminder that the battle against criminal gangs continues.
In response to this escalating violence, the government declared a state of emergency leading to arrests and investigations into various incidents throughout the country. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made by law enforcement agencies to combat criminal activities and ensure public safety.