United States designates Los Chone Killers as terrorists

The United States has officially designated the Ecuadorian criminal group Los Chone Killers as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. This move underscores escalating concerns over narcoterrorism within Ecuador.

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This criminal structure collaborates with Mexican cartels in the transfer and export of illicit drugs to finance terrorist and criminal activities.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the designation via the social media platform X, stating that Los Chone Killers actively collaborates with Mexican cartels. Their involvement includes facilitating the transfer and export of illicit drugs, using the proceeds to finance both criminal and terrorist operations. Rubio further alleged that the organization has been responsible for attacks against civilians, law enforcement officers, and government officials, including high-profile assassinations.

In response to the designation, Ecuador's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility conveyed its gratitude to the U.S. government. The ministry affirmed that the cooperation between the two nations strengthens Ecuador's capacity to confront transnational criminal structures that pose a threat to public safety and well-being.

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Working with President Daniel Noboa in Ecuador, we will continue to strengthen our regional security and ensure that narco-terrorists have no place in our hemisphere.

Ecuadorian officials emphasized their appreciation for U.S. assistance in efforts to combat international criminal mafias and bolster regional security. They view this support as critical in addressing the challenges posed by narcoterrorism in the country. Secretary Rubio reiterated the U.S. commitment to enhancing security cooperation with President Daniel Noboa, vowing to ensure that "narco-terrorists have no place in our hemisphere."

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The cooperation between both countries strengthens the Ecuadorian state's capabilities to confront criminal structures that represent a threat to the security and well-being of citizens.