Nighttime urban raid scene in Manta, Ecuador: armored police and military units in dark tactical gear surround a modest coastal house, floodlights and drones overhead, a concealed crawlspace revealed with dust and debris as officers detain a bearded middle-aged man in handcuffs. Subtle U.S.-Ecuador coordination hinted by a mobile command van with satellite dish and analysts monitoring maps and signals. Background shows calm coastline and city lights, no gunfire, a sense of controlled precision. Visual cues of seized evidence crates labeled “narcotics” and “firearms,” and a discreet extradition transport vehicle nearby. Mood: tense but orderly, high-stakes
Summary
Ecuadorian authorities have recaptured José Adolfo “Fito” Macías, the notorious leader of Los Choneros, more than a year after his escape from a maximum-security prison sparked nationwide violence and a global manhunt. Found hiding in a concealed space in his hometown of Manta after a lengthy operation involving specialized police and military units, and supported by U.S. intelligence, Fito faces longstanding Ecuadorian convictions as well as U.S. charges for large-scale cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses tied to Mexican cartels. President Daniel Noboa announced the arrest and the initiation of extradition proceedings to the United States, marking a significant step in Ecuador’s struggle against powerful prison-based gangs designated as terrorist organizations.
Key Points
- José Adolfo “Fito” Macías, Los Choneros leader, recaptured in Manta after more than a year on the run.
- Escape in 2024 triggered riots, bombings, kidnappings, and a national emergency across Ecuador.
- Operation involved specialized police, military intelligence, and U.S. support; $1 million reward had been offered.
- Fito faces U.S. charges for multi-ton cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses linked to Mexican cartels.
- Ecuador has initiated extradition to the U.S., framing the arrest as a major anti-crime milestone.