Ecuador: Military Dismantles Criminal Base, Uncovers Mass Graves and Weapons Cache

Ecuadorian Armed Forces have dismantled a base belonging to the criminal group GDO Los Águilas in La Troncal, located in the Cañar province. The military operation, prompted by intelligence reports, uncovered clandestine mass graves and a substantial arsenal of weapons, marking a significant blow against organized crime in the region.

The intensive ground operation, conducted by military personnel, faced armed resistance upon arrival. Soldiers successfully neutralized the threat, leading to the apprehension of three individuals identified as alleged members of GDO Los Águilas. This group is known for its involvement in illicit activities, including drug trafficking, contract killings, assaults, and systematic extortion targeting the local population.

Following the confrontation, a thorough search of the area revealed multiple clandestine burial sites. Preliminary reports suggest these mass graves contain bodies, potentially belonging to rival gang members. In addition to the human remains, the military seized a significant cache of weapons, including four assault rifles, two revolvers, two pistols, and a submachine gun. Ammunition of various calibers and four blocks of cocaine were also confiscated.

The Ecuadorian Army confirmed the operation via its social media, stating the seizure of weapons and the discovery of bodies. After securing the area, the Armed Forces notified the Integrated Security System ECU 911, enabling the National Police to take over the procedural aspects, including the collection of evidence and remains from the graves, in accordance with their constitutional responsibilities.

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The Army of Ecuador in a military operation apprehended three citizens belonging to GDO Los Águilas and located several common graves with buried bodies. In addition, it seized 4...