Deadly Prison Riot in Ecuador Leaves 15 Inmates Dead

At least 15 inmates were killed and 14 others injured in a violent clash early Tuesday at Ecuador’s El Litoral prison, notorious for frequent and deadly gang violence. The prison service SNAI reported that the “grave incidents” occurred in the pre-dawn hours at the Guayaquil-based facility.

Security forces have since regained control of the prison, and a comprehensive search of the premises is underway.

El Litoral has a grim history of violent gang clashes; its deadliest incident in September 2021 left over 120 inmates dead. Nearby residents reported hearing gunfire early Tuesday, and police tactical units were seen entering the facility while a helicopter circled above.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details about the identities of those killed, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fight.

The prison holds some of Ecuador’s most dangerous gang members, many of whom continue to operate their criminal networks from within. Prison staff often face threats and intimidation from the inmates. In September, El Litoral’s director, María Daniela Icaza, was shot and killed in her car after receiving numerous threats, according to her family.

Ecuador has been grappling with a dramatic rise in gang-related violence, transforming the country from one of Latin America’s safest to one of its most perilous.