Alleged Leader of Los Tiguerones Arrested in Guayaquil Operation

Ecuadorian armed forces apprehended Jean Carlos P., known by the alias 'Memo,' in Guayaquil, identifying him as the alleged leader of the criminal organization Los Tiguerones. The military operation took place in the Monte Sinaí sector, following intelligence information that led authorities to a property operating as a clandestine nightclub.

During the intervention at the illegal establishment, 'Memo' was found in possession of several illicit items. A personal search revealed 24 small bags containing a greenish plant substance, presumed to be marijuana, along with multiple rounds of ammunition: three 9mm rounds, four 9mm traumatic rounds, and four .22 caliber rounds. These items were documented and secured as evidence. The detainee remained at the scene while the search and seizure procedures were completed.

Both 'Memo' and the confiscated evidence were handed over to the relevant authorities to proceed with the legal process. Los Tiguerones are identified as a transnational criminal organization that emerged in Ecuador around 2020-2021, following a split within the Los Choneros group. Initially based in Esmeraldas, the gang has expanded its operations to Guayaquil, Manta, and other coastal cities.

Authorities report that Los Tiguerones are involved in international drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, armed robbery, and murder. The group is believed to maintain connections with Mexican cartels, which allegedly finance their operations. The arrest of 'Memo' represents a significant blow to the organization's leadership in the region.

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During military operations executed in the Monte Sinaí sector, and through information...