On Friday, a mayor in Ecuador was shot dead, marking the second killing in just three days. This attack is part of the “internal armed conflict” that the president declared at the national level at the beginning of 2024 against organized crime gangs. The latest victim is Jorge Maldonado, the mayor of the municipality of Portovelo in the southern coastal province of El Oro. His death was confirmed by the Association of Municipalities of Ecuador (AME). The attack took place around 9:20 local time on Friday when hitmen shot Maldonado, who was then taken to a medical center where he was pronounced dead.
The recent murders of mayors in Ecuador, including the youngest mayor Brigitte Garcia, highlight the escalating violence in the country. The Noboa Government has declared an internal armed conflict and is calling for a referendum to implement reforms in security, justice, and employment. The government aims to combat organized crime and increase penalties for crimes related to illegal activities like mining.
These areas are prime targets for criminal gangs operating in Ecuador. Both municipalities have a significant presence of illegal mining activities and are transit areas for drug trafficking. The murders of mayors like Maldonado and Sanchez underscore the urgent need for action to tackle organized crime and ensure the safety of all citizens. With a rising homicide rate and rampant criminal violence, Ecuador is facing significant challenges in maintaining law and order. The government’s proposed reforms seek to address these issues and improve the overall security situation in the country.
This incident comes shortly after another mayor’s murder – Jose Sanchez – which happened three days ago in Cantón Camilo Ponce Enriquez in southern Andean province Azuay. Both municipalities have been targeted by criminal gangs due to their high levels of illegal mining activities and drug trafficking routes.
The escalating violence against mayors highlights how dangerous it can be for politicians to work towards improving their communities’ welfare while facing threats from organized crime groups seeking control over resources such as natural resources or drug trade routes.
The government needs to take decisive action against these criminals and provide better protection measures for mayors who are working towards improving public services while facing danger from criminal elements.
It is essential that we all come together as a society to fight against this type of violence and ensure that our leaders can work safely towards building a better future for us all.
In conclusion, with two mayor’s killed within three days amidst an internal armed conflict declared by President Noboa’s government against organized crime groups operating within Ecuador’s borders, there is no doubt that addressing this issue will require urgent attention from both government officials and citizens alike if we want our nation to maintain peace, security
