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Ecuador's Prison Deaths Quadruple as Overcrowding Soars

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, inmate deaths in Ecuador's prisons surged nearly fourfold from 2024.
President Daniel Noboa's security strategy aims to restore order in the prison system.
Overcrowding reached 30.6% in adult prisons, worsened by military interventions.
Relatives and rights groups report inadequate food, medical care, and abuse.
Noboa's administration plans to build a larger prison by 2027.

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Story summary

In 2025, inmate deaths in Ecuador's prisons surged nearly fourfold from 2024.
President Daniel Noboa's security strategy aims to restore order in the prison system.
Overcrowding reached 30.6% in adult prisons, worsened by military interventions.
Relatives and rights groups report inadequate food, medical care, and abuse.
Noboa's administration plans to build a larger prison by 2027.