Thousands deployed in Quito's 'Protection Plan' amid rising crime

Ecuadorian authorities have deployed thousands of police and military personnel to the capital as part of "Plan de Protección de Quito," a new security strategy to address recent criminal activity. The plan involves simultaneous operations across all nine districts of Quito, aiming to intensify citizen protection in key urban areas.

Interior Minister John Reimberg and Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo have personally overseen initial operations. Reimberg visited commercial areas in the southern part of the city, while Loffredo inspected strategic locations and passenger terminals. Their presence underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the proper application of security protocols and the visible deployment of law enforcement.

These security measures are concentrated in areas with high public footfall. Priority zones include markets, banks, Metro stations, schools, and universities throughout the city. The goal is to establish a stronger security presence and deter criminal acts.

Initial reports from the Ministry of the Interior indicate significant activity. Authorities conducted 380 identity checks and inspected 180 motorcycles and 80 private vehicles. A key outcome was the seizure of 25 knives and an unspecified quantity of controlled substances. Additionally, five foreign nationals were handed over to immigration authorities for processing related to their departure from Ecuador.

The "Plan de Protección de Quito" is designed as a continuous strategy, with no set end date. Security forces will remain deployed to restore order and tranquility in the capital. The government's plan integrates preventive controls with intelligence gathering to ensure sustained security efforts.