Prison Riot in Guayaquil Leaves Three Dead, Six Injured: Ongoing Concerns Over Human Rights Violations and Prison Conditions in Ecuador

A riot that broke out at the Regional Prison of Guayaquil in Ecuador has left three prisoners dead and six others injured. The government has declared a state of emergency due to an “internal armed conflict” against organized crime gangs. The National Service of Comprehensive Attention to Persons Deprived of Liberty (SNAI) confirmed the number of deceased prisoners and injured individuals after the riot.

The unrest within the prison began late at night, with explosions and fires caused by inmates burning mattresses. It took police and armed forces four hours to regain control of the prison, which is part of a larger complex housing around 12,000 prisoners. Inmates were reportedly protesting the treatment they received from the military during the militarization of Ecuadorian prisons under the state of emergency.

Two prisoners have been identified as allegedly responsible for inciting the riot and have been placed under custody by Ecuadorian justice to be prosecuted for terrorism charges. Relatives of inmates gathered outside the prison, demanding information and protesting against their treatment. They expressed concerns about abuse and lack of rights that inmates have faced since the state of emergency was declared.

During the militarization process, reports have emerged suggesting human rights violations committed by armed forces against prisoners. The Guayaquil Regional Prison has been a frequent target for weapons seizures and prohibited items from its population due to its history of gang control and extortion among inmates, leading to unrest and violence.

The situation within Ecuador’s prison system remains tense, with ongoing efforts to address internal conflicts and improve conditions for inmates. The government’s response to riots and state emergencies declaration has sparked criticism from human rights organizations and relatives of prisoners alike, highlighting