Ecuador: Officials say late Jan. 23 Zaruma explosion was an act of terrorism

Event

Authorities have announced that an explosion that occurred late Jan. 23 in the Limoncito area of Zaruma, El Oro Province, was an act of terrorism. The home of an employee of the Ministry of Energy was reportedly targeted in the explosion; the employee, who survived the blast, had received threats prior to the attack. The explosive device detonated in the individual's garage and destroyed a vehicle parked in it. Following the attack, authorities affirmed that the government would continue to protect its employees in the area.

Context

Organized criminal groups conduct extensive illegal gold mining activities in Zaruma and often use explosives to clear land while mining. It is likely that one of these outfits is behind the attack and is attempting to intimidate the government from conducting raids on illegal mines.