Ecuador arrests more than 30 in CJNG-linked case

Reporting and context

Ecuadorian and U.S. authorities detained more than 30 people in an operation targeting an international drug-trafficking network that officials say is directly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, or CJNG, Publimetro México reported. The operation unfolded Thursday, September 24, in several parts of Ecuador and involved about 320 members of Ecuador’s National Police, 50 U.S. Southern Command personnel and support from the Drug Enforcement Administration.

According to Ecuadorian Interior Minister John Reimberg, investigators had spent several months examining a network accused of receiving drug shipments from Colombia and moving them through Ecuadorian ports. Authorities estimate the organization transported at least seven tons of narcotics by sea from areas including Guayaquil and Machala to Central America, the United States and Europe. Raids in residential areas of Guayas captured the alleged leader and one of the network’s principal financiers, officials said. Investigators also seized firearms, luxury vehicles, jewelry, watches and mobile phones.

Reimberg said the organization operated differently from local criminal groups and “works directly for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel,” according to the source. Authorities further estimated that drug seizures during the investigation caused the network an economic loss of about $322 million. Publimetro México reported that Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa highlighted the international cooperation. The operation came one day after Ecuadorian forces, with U.S. support, killed alias “Charlie” and two alleged bodyguards in Manabí. Ecuador’s government described Charlie as an alleged Los Choneros member and logistics and financial operator with possible links to Colombia’s Oliver Sinisterra Front and the CJNG.