Ecuador's Security Crisis: 60,000 in Criminal Structures, Government Claims 'Control'

Ecuador's Security Crisis: 60,000 in Criminal Structures as Government Claims 'Control' Ecuador is grappling with a deepening security crisis, with organized crime escalating amid a backdrop of official pronouncements that downplay the severity of the situation. International organizations estimate that over 60,000 people are actively involved in criminal structures, a figure that dwarfs the number of police officers on active duty. The video shows scenes of violence and police activity, painting a grim picture of daily life in Ecuador. The government's claim that "everything is under control" stands in stark contrast to the rising tide of violence and the visible presence of armed gangs. One commentator noted, "Arriving home alive is no longer a routine, it's a miracle." The report also highlights the increase in the number of criminal gangs from 24 in January 2024 to 37 in June 2025, raising questions about the government's strategy to combat the crisis. The government's recent introduction of a "National Solidarity Law" to address the issue is met with skepticism given the lack of tangible results.