Ecuadorian authorities are making strides in combating gang violence, with the recapture of José Adolfo Macías, also known as "Fito," who now faces extradition to the U.S.
**Ecuador’s Fight Against Gang Violence: Capture of Fito Paves the Way for Extradition**
**Ecuador’s Fight Against Gang Violence: Capture of Fito Paves the Way for Extradition**
Ecuador’s President announces the successful capture of gang leader Fito, whose prison break incited nationwide turmoil.
In a significant breakthrough in Ecuador's battle against organized crime, security forces have re-arrested José Adolfo Macías, infamously known as "Fito." His escape from prison last year triggered a wave of violence throughout the country, prompting a state of emergency. Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa, confirmed the capture via social media, stating, "We have done our part to proceed with Fito’s extradition to the United States. We are awaiting their response." Macías stands accused in the U.S. of drug trafficking and arms smuggling.
As the notorious leader of the Los Choneros gang, one of Ecuador’s most dangerous criminal factions, Macías was indicted earlier this year in the Eastern District of New York on seven charges, including cocaine distribution. His dramatic prison escape in January 2024 occurred just as authorities attempted to relocate him to a maximum-security facility, leading to a violent eruption across Ecuador that involved riots, gang confrontations, kidnappings, and bomb threats.
After months on the run, authorities located Macías hiding in an underground bunker in Manta, approximately 120 miles from Guayaquil. Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed the details of the operation, which showcased the collaboration between the Ecuadorean police and military. Footage released of the arrest showed Macías, shirtless and handcuffed, being escorted to an Air Force plane for transport back to Guayaquil.
This high-profile capture follows President Noboa's commitment to tackle gang violence in Ecuador, a focus he emphasized during his presidential campaign. He later reiterated his stance, stating, “More will fall, we will reclaim the country. No truce." The U.S. Embassy in Quito commended the success of the operation, reinforcing international cooperation in combating drug-related offenses.
As the notorious leader of the Los Choneros gang, one of Ecuador’s most dangerous criminal factions, Macías was indicted earlier this year in the Eastern District of New York on seven charges, including cocaine distribution. His dramatic prison escape in January 2024 occurred just as authorities attempted to relocate him to a maximum-security facility, leading to a violent eruption across Ecuador that involved riots, gang confrontations, kidnappings, and bomb threats.
After months on the run, authorities located Macías hiding in an underground bunker in Manta, approximately 120 miles from Guayaquil. Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed the details of the operation, which showcased the collaboration between the Ecuadorean police and military. Footage released of the arrest showed Macías, shirtless and handcuffed, being escorted to an Air Force plane for transport back to Guayaquil.
This high-profile capture follows President Noboa's commitment to tackle gang violence in Ecuador, a focus he emphasized during his presidential campaign. He later reiterated his stance, stating, “More will fall, we will reclaim the country. No truce." The U.S. Embassy in Quito commended the success of the operation, reinforcing international cooperation in combating drug-related offenses.
