Police Reveal How to Act During Restaurant Robberies in Quito

Amidst a surge of armed robberies targeting restaurants in Quito, the Metropolitan Police have issued crucial safety recommendations for diners, business owners, and passersby. The central message from Major Byron Flores, acting head of the Operational Department of the Eugenio Espejo Police District, is clear: personal safety and life are paramount, far exceeding the value of any material possession.

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Life represents the most valuable asset, above any material object.

Recent incidents, including a violent robbery on July 3, 2026, in the Kennedy sector where masked assailants stole valuables and threatened patrons, underscore the escalating threat. Videos of these events frequently circulate on social media, showcasing armed criminals entering establishments and menacing customers. The police have identified two primary patterns in these assaults: targeted robberies where victims are followed due to visible high-value items like jewelry, and indiscriminate robberies where criminals enter and steal from anyone present, often focusing on cell phones.

One particularly tragic incident occurred on January 8, 2026, when a security guard at a café was shot and killed while attempting to thwart a robbery. This event highlights the extreme danger faced by both customers and staff during these crimes. The police are urging citizens to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when displaying expensive items.

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Avoid any confrontation with the armed criminals, regardless of the value of the stolen objects.

For those caught in such a situation, the primary advice is to avoid any confrontation with armed perpetrators, regardless of the items being stolen. If circumstances permit without endangering oneself, individuals are encouraged to try and memorize distinguishing features of the assailants. This could include tattoos, accents, clothing, the type of vehicles used in their escape, physical characteristics, or the direction of their flight. Such details are vital for police investigations and can aid in identifying and apprehending the suspects. The police emphasize that cooperation and a focus on survival are the most effective strategies during these terrifying events.

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If conditions allow, the victim can memorize traits that help identify the perpetrators. These traits include tattoos, accent, clothing type, characteristics of motorcycles or vehicles used in the escape, physical features, and the escape route.