Ecuadorian police operation nets 11 arrests, seizes weapons and drugs

Ecuadorian police have successfully executed "Operation Apollo 24," a strategic intervention that led to the arrest of 11 individuals and the isolation of a 15-year-old minor. The operation, which took place between late July 30 and early July 31, 2026, targeted members of prominent criminal organizations including Latin King, Tiguerones, Lobos, and Mafia 18.

The extensive police action spanned multiple districts, including Durán, Modelo, Sur, 9 de Octubre, Nueva Prosperina, and Pascuales. It was part of a broader "3D" operational strategy aimed at dismantling organized crime structures responsible for a range of illicit activities such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, kidnapping, extortion, and property crimes.

During the 28 targeted interventions, law enforcement seized a significant cache of illegal items. This included 15 firearms (shotguns, revolvers, and pistols), 176 rounds of ammunition, 354 doses of narcotics, and eight brick-like blocks of suspected drugs. Additionally, authorities recovered two dynamite sticks, two vehicles, 20 motorcycles, one three-wheeled vehicle, five canisters of diesel, six video surveillance cameras, two mobile phones, and two pistol frames.

General Walter Villarroel Trujillo, commander of Zone 8, explained that "Operation Apollo 24" was based on a technical analysis of crime incidence in the area. The focus on controlling weapons and motorcycles stems from their frequent use in violent crimes. Villarroel emphasized that these operations are meticulously planned, utilizing technological tools and community proximity information, including direct reports received via QR codes.

The operation also led to the apprehension of two additional individuals: one wanted for alleged murder in El Oro province in 2023, and another for alleged sexual abuse in Tungurahua province, also from 2023. The police noted a public concern regarding the increase in robberies and assaults, often perpetrated by criminals using motorcycles, which prompted the intensified controls.

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Through the QR code, we receive direct information about security problems affecting each sector.