Story perspectives

Ecuador Launches Major Anti-Drug Operation Amid Violence

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ecuador has launched a two-week anti-drug operation involving 75,000 police and military personnel, supported by the U.S., to combat drug trafficking until March 31, 2024.
The operation includes nighttime curfews in four provinces to address escalating violence from drug cartels, with President Daniel Noboa declaring a "war" on organized crime.
Ecuadorian forces recently bombed a FARC dissident camp, and the FBI plans to open an office in Ecuador to aid in organized crime efforts.
Concerns have emerged regarding the curfews, particularly about potential income loss for workers and risks of human rights abuses.

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Story summary

Ecuador has launched a two-week anti-drug operation involving 75,000 police and military personnel, supported by the U.S., to combat drug trafficking until March 31, 2024.
The operation includes nighttime curfews in four provinces to address escalating violence from drug cartels, with President Daniel Noboa declaring a "war" on organized crime.
Ecuadorian forces recently bombed a FARC dissident camp, and the FBI plans to open an office in Ecuador to aid in organized crime efforts.
Concerns have emerged regarding the curfews, particularly about potential income loss for workers and risks of human rights abuses.