Ecuador prison riot leaves 14 people dead and 14 wounded

A prison riot in the southern port city of Machala on Monday left 14 people dead and 14 wounded after clashes between rival gangs, Ecuadorean police said.

The violence erupted during a confrontation between inmates from the criminal groups Los Lobos and Sao Box, according to authorities. A prison guard was killed and prisoners abducted police officers before some managed to flee the facility. Officials said that 13 escapees have since been recaptured.

“Uniformed officers confronted heavily armed inmates who tried to escape and maintain control of the cellblock,” Police Chief William Calle told broadcaster Ecuavisa, adding that guards were attacked and several officers were taken hostage during the unrest.

Ecuador has seen repeated deadly outbreaks of prison violence in recent years as organised gangs fight for territory and dominance inside the penitentiary system.

The government of President Daniel Noboa has vowed to crack down on crime, blaming the clashes on rival gangs vying for control.

Local and national security forces deployed to restore order, and injured inmates were taken to nearby hospitals, officials said.

Authorities are investigating what sparked Monday’s confrontation and say they will press criminal charges where appropriate.

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