Civil Aviation official disappears in Quito; search intensifies

Ecuadorian authorities have launched an extensive search operation for Héctor Vinicio Rojas Velasco, an official with the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC), who was reported missing on July 24, 2026. Rojas Velasco, 56, disappeared after leaving his workplace in the San Blas area of Quito, and his family has lost all contact with him since.

His family and friends have stated that his phone calls and messages remain unanswered, prompting them to appeal to the public for any information that could help establish his whereabouts. The National Police and the State Attorney General's Office have actively engaged in the search, with the Attorney General's office issuing a public alert on social media, urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.

The National Police have activated search protocols and added Rojas Velasco to the registry of missing persons. Authorities are encouraging citizens to report any relevant details to a toll-free number to aid in the localization efforts. This case highlights the ongoing challenge of disappearances in Ecuador.

This incident occurs against a backdrop of rising disappearances in the country. Reports indicate that missing persons cases increased by 2.8% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, underscoring the significant challenges faced by security and justice institutions in addressing these cases.

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The problem lies in the data, which may not have been updated, particularly regarding applicants' assets.