Ecuador Declares 'State of War' on Drug Gangs

Unrest triggered by disappearance of powerful gang leader; government plans to build high-security prisons for gang leaders.

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa declared a 'state of war' on drug-trafficking gangs, naming 22 gangs as terrorist organizations and making them official military targets.
Unrest was triggered after the leader of one of Ecuador's most powerful drug gangs - Los Choneros - disappeared from prison.
President Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency, which he hardened after more than 130 prison guards and staff were taken hostage inside prisons and a series of explosions were reported across the country.
The government claimed the latest wave of violence is a reaction to the president's plan to build new high-security prisons for gang leaders.
The country will also begin deporting foreign prisoners, especially Colombians, to reduce prison populations and spending.