Ecuadorian forces seize 32 drug packages abandoned at sea

Ecuador's Armed Forces have intercepted a significant drug shipment, seizing 32 packages of narcotics abandoned in the sea. The operation was conducted by a naval patrol unit within Ecuadorian jurisdictional waters, bolstered by intelligence from the National Police.

Authorities believe the drugs were intentionally discarded at sea to evade detection by maritime patrols. The seized packages are being transported to port for analysis to determine the exact type and quantity of the substance, and to facilitate further investigation into the trafficking network.

Ecuador's strategic location, bordering Colombia and Peru, the world's top cocaine producers, and its extensive coastline with major ports like Guayaquil, have made it a critical transit point for illicit drug trade. The drugs are predominantly destined for markets in North America and Europe.

Official data indicates a trend in drug seizures. In 2025, security forces confiscated 227.1 tons of drugs, a decrease from the record 294.61 tons seized in 2024. Despite this reduction, the country continues to grapple with the challenges of drug trafficking.