Background on Adolfo Macías “Fito”
Adolfo Macías, known as “Fito,” is Ecuador’s most prominent drug trafficker. His extradition to the United States marks a significant event in Ecuador’s ongoing battle against crime and drug trafficking.
Recapture and Extradition Process
Macías was recaptured on June 25, 2024, in a luxurious residence in the port city of Manta, where he had built a secret bunker. Following his recapture, he agreed to his extradition voluntarily during a telematic court audience from prison.
International Criminal Network – Los Choneros
Macías leads Los Choneros, a powerful drug trafficking organization with international connections. The group collaborates with the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel, the Colombian Clan del Golfo armed group, and Balkan mafias. These alliances have allowed Los Choneros to become a major player in the global cocaine trade.
Rising Crime and Violence in Ecuador
Ecuador has experienced a surge in crime and violence, with homicide rates increasing from 6 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 to 38 per 100,000 by 2024. The country’s strategic ports, dollarized economy, and corruption have fueled the growth of criminal organizations.
Approximately 73% of the world’s cocaine passes through Ecuador’s ports, according to official sources. In 2024, the country seized a record 294 tons of drugs.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Adolfo Macías “Fito”? Adolfo Macías, known as “Fito,” is Ecuador’s most notorious drug trafficker and leader of the Los Choneros criminal organization.
- Why was Fito extradited to the United States? The U.S. Department of Justice charged Fito with drug trafficking and arms dealing in April 2024. His extradition from Ecuador was part of the ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime.
- What is Los Choneros? Los Choneros is a powerful drug trafficking organization with international connections, including collaborations with the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel, Colombian Clan del Golfo, and Balkan mafias.
- Why is Ecuador experiencing increased crime and violence? Factors contributing to the rise in crime and violence in Ecuador include strategic ports, a dollarized economy, and widespread corruption.
