Ecuador extends state of emergency in six provinces to combat organized crime

The provinces affected by the extension are El Oro, Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi, Orellana, and Santa Elena. The Camilo Ponce Enriquez Canton of Azuay Province is also included. Notably, the state of emergency was not renewed in Subcumbios Province.

The state of emergency grants increased authority to security forces. This includes the suspension of some constitutional rights, allowing the National Police and armed forces to conduct searches and intercept communications without a warrant.

This extension highlights the ongoing challenges Ecuador faces in combating organized crime. The additional security measures aim to disrupt criminal activity and improve public safety in the affected regions. (ILKHA)