"Rising Chaos in Ecuador: Gangs, Violence, and Disinformation"

Gangs and terror groups have unleashed chaos in Ecuador's largest city, Guayaquil, prompting the government to declare an "internal armed conflict" and order the armed forces to "neutralize" more than 20 gangs. The country, once known as an "Island of Peace," is now gripped by fear as criminal groups aligned with international cartels wreak havoc. With a nationwide curfew in effect, law enforcement and military personnel are working tirelessly to combat the violence, but face challenges such as equipment shortages and fear of retaliation. President Noboa has called for international cooperation to address the global problem of drug trafficking and violence, while locals fear the crisis may drive more people to emigrate.