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Ecuador and U.S. Strengthen Anti-Drug Operations Amid Colombia's Offensive

KVIA•Friday, March 6, 2026 at 5:22 PM•CNN Newsource

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The United States and Ecuador are enhancing joint military operations against drug trafficking in Ecuador, as tensions rise with Colombia over border control. Colombian authorities, in collaboration with the DEA and Ecuadorian officials, recently destroyed five drug production labs capable of generating up to 7 tons of cocaine monthly. This crackdown is part of a broader strategy to combat transnational crime, with Colombia seizing over 1,300 kilograms of cocaine during the operation. The U.S. Embassy in Quito has issued travel warnings for Americans in Ecuador, advising caution due to risks of crime and unrest, especially in the provinces of Guayas, Los Ríos, Santo Domingo, and El Oro, where a nightly curfew is in effect until March 30.

Key Details: • Joint operations between U.S. and Ecuador against drug trafficking are underway. • Five drug labs destroyed in Colombia, with a capacity of producing 7 tons of cocaine monthly. • Curfew in Guayas, Los Ríos, Santo Domingo, and El Oro provinces from 11 PM to 5 AM until March 30. • Travelers in Ecuador are advised to follow U.S. State Department guidelines and remain cautious.

ecuador colombia us-embassy narcotrafficking drug-labs

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Gustavo PetroPedro Arnulfo SánchezDEAU.S. EmbassyColombian PoliceSanto DomingoEl OroIpialesPuerto AsísTumacoGuayasLos Ríos

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