Background on Adolfo ‘Fito’ Macías
Adolfo Macías, also known as “Fito,” is a notorious criminal and narcotraficante in Ecuador. His real name is associated with significant criminal activities, including drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and hired killings. Macías is the leader of “Los Choneros,” a powerful criminal organization based in Manta, a coastal city in western Ecuador.
Increased Security Measures Following Recapture
Ecuador’s police and military forces have raised their alert levels due to the possibility of violent retaliation after Macías’ recapture. The Minister of Internal Affairs, John Reimberg, announced the heightened security measures on Thursday.
Macías was apprehended in an operation in Manta on Wednesday. He was then transported to the high-security prison known as “La Roca” in Guayaquil, southwestern Ecuador.
Reimberg stated that the 58,000 members of the National Police and 45,000 members of the Armed Forces are on alert. Certain areas of the country have been secured to prevent any potential issues, according to Reimberg.
History of Macías’ Criminal Activities
Macías escaped from prison in Guayaquil at the beginning of 2024, triggering an unprecedented wave of violence in Ecuador. This escalation led President Daniel Noboa to declare an “internal armed conflict” and deploy the military on the streets.
Under Macías’ command, his men detonated car bombs, abducted hundreds of penitentiary officers, and seized a television channel. The fear is that his recent detention may provoke further violence.
Security Recommendations and Extradition
Reimberg advised citizens to avoid “La Roca” as security forces have been instructed to repel any threats. Macías was found in a bunker he had constructed in one of his Manta residences, according to the minister.
The Ecuadorian government has initiated extradition proceedings for Macías to the United States and is awaiting a response from Washington.
Context of Ecuador’s Crime Landscape
Ecuador is entangled in a bloody war between criminal bands, mostly allied with Mexican cartels and Balkan organizations, as well as Colombian guerrillas.
The homicide rate in Ecuador soared from 6 per 100,000 people in 2018 to 38 in 2024, with a record high of 47 in 2023.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Adolfo ‘Fito’ Macías? Macías is a prominent criminal and narcotraficante in Ecuador, leading the organization “Los Choneros” involved in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and hired killings.
- Why is there heightened security? The recapture of Macías has led to concerns about potential violent retaliation from his criminal organization, prompting Ecuador’s police and military to raise their alert levels.
- What is the history of Macías’ criminal activities? Macías escaped from prison in 2024, triggering a surge in violence that led to an internal armed conflict declaration. His men were responsible for car bombings, kidnappings, and seizing a television channel.
- What are the current security recommendations? Citizens have been advised to avoid “La Roca” prison due to heightened security measures.
- What is Ecuador’s current crime situation? Ecuador faces a violent war between criminal bands allied with Mexican cartels, Balkan organizations, and Colombian guerrillas. The homicide rate has dramatically increased in recent years.
