The Ecuadorian government announced the deployment of military and police forces in four provinces with the objective of strengthening public order and combating organizations linked to drug trafficking and organized violence. The operation includes vehicle controls, intensive patrols and the capture of leaders of criminal groups operating in the
area.The measure includes a curfew that applies between 23:00 and 5:00 in the provinces of El Oro, Guayas, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas and Los Ríos. This provision is part of a series of actions promoted by the Executive to combat the advance of organized crime. The curfew will be in effect until March 31, and only essential workers, such as security, health and military personnel, will be able to circulate. Authorities warned that any civilian who violates the restriction could be arrested
.
The deployment involves the participation of about 75,000 members of the Police and Armed Forces. According to official data, at least 72 suspected members of criminal organizations have already been arrested.









