National Police Execute Nine Libertad Security Operations Across Four Provinces

Ecuadorian Minister of Interior John Reimberg reported the official outcomes of nine 'Libertad' police operations executed across four provinces: Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, and Azuay. Conducted by the National Police through the National Anti-Kidnapping and Extortion Investigation Unit (Unase), the interventions resulted in the apprehension of 22 individuals and the release of eight kidnapping victims.

According to the report published on October 28, 2026, law enforcement actions prevented an estimated $1 million in extortion demands. Interventions were directed against targeted threats and economic demands in multiple jurisdictions, including Tonsupa, Naranjal, Buena Fe, Guayaquil, and Quinindé.

Operational Highlights Across Provinces

• Naranjal (Guayas): Six individuals were apprehended for alleged involvement in extortion against a merchant who faced $5,000 in economic demands.
• Guayaquil (Guayas): Three Ecuadorian citizens, including two adolescents, were freed in the Flor de Bastión sector, with two suspects apprehended. Additional kidnapping inquiries were conducted in Nueva Prosperina.
• Quinindé (Esmeraldas): Police rescued a Colombian merchant who subsequently received medical attention. Five adults were apprehended and one minor was detained in connection with the case.

The National Police confirmed that all adult detainees and minor inductees were handed over to competent authorities for legal proceedings.

What to watch

• Judicial Proceedings: Formal hearings and legal outcomes for the 22 individuals placed under authority supervision across Guayas, Esmeraldas, Los Ríos, and Azuay.
• Police Enforcement Reports: Continued operational updates from Unase regarding anti-extortion and kidnapping interventions in coastal and highland commercial sectors.

Sources: eluniverso.com.

Image: AI-generated editorial illustration; not a documentary depiction of the events reported.