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Ecuador’s ‘Fito’ Accepts U.S. Extradition Under Reinstated Framework

This move triggers the first use of Ecuador’s referendum-backed extradition process with President Noboa yet to issue the formal transfer order.

Jose Adolfo Macias, alias «Fito», peu après son arrestation.
Image
Photo diffusée par l'armée équatorienne dunarcotrafiquant "Fito" après sa capture à l'issue d'un an et demi de cavale, le 25 juin 2025 à Manta, dans la province de Manabi, en Equateur
Photo diffusée par l'armée équatorienne du narcotrafiquant Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito" (c), entouré par le ministre de la Défense Carlo Loffredo (g) et le ministre de l'Intérieur John Reimberg, après sa recapture, le 25 juin 2025 à Manta, en Equateur

Overview

  • Adolfo Macías “Fito” formally accepted U.S. extradition during a July 11 videoconference hearing before the National Court of Justice.
  • He is charged in the United States with trafficking cocaine and arms by prosecutors in Brooklyn.
  • “Fito” surrendered on June 25 in his hometown of Manta after 18 months on the run following his January 2024 prison escape.
  • As leader of the Choneros gang, he managed transnational drug routes linking Ecuador’s Pacific ports to major markets.
  • His case marks the first application of the 2024 referendum-restored extradition law aimed at curbing organized crime.