Police dismantle armed gang in Guayas, four arrested

Ecuadorian police have dismantled a suspected criminal group in the Guayas province, arresting four adults and isolating one minor during a targeted operation in Yaguachi.

The National Police's Judicial Police Operational Group conducted the intervention, which stemmed from ongoing investigations into criminal activities in the region. The arrested individuals have been identified as Jeremy Josué Z. V., 19; Boris Alexander V. A., 28; Edinson Eduardo E. A., 29; and Deryan Alfredo Á. V., 20. One of the detainees has a prior criminal record.

Authorities believe the apprehended individuals are members of the organized crime group "Los Águilas." They are allegedly involved in a range of offenses, including highway robbery, illegal possession and carrying of firearms, extortion, violent homicides, and drug trafficking.

During the operation, police confiscated significant evidence, including two motorcycles, a vehicle reported stolen, two long firearms, a pistol, and 38 rounds of ammunition. The seized items have been submitted for technical analysis.

The four adult suspects are now in the custody of the competent judicial authority for legal proceedings. The minor has been placed under the care of specialized authorities, following protocols for juveniles. The National Police stated that operations are ongoing to disrupt organized crime structures, recover stolen property, and remove illegal firearms from circulation in Guayas province.