Ecuador: Car bombs and gunfire break out in Esmeraldas late May 18

Event

At least three suspected car bombs detonated simultaneously in Esmeraldas late May 18. According to initial reports, one bomb exploded in front of the Luis Vargas Torres School; locations of the other two explosions were not immediately confirmed. Gangs are reportedly fighting with firearms and grenades following the blasts. Authorities have not confirmed any casualties from the incidents.

Heightened security and traffic disruptions are likely near blast sites. Further bombings, gunfire, or grenade attacks are possible over the coming days.

Esmeraldas is 180 km (112 miles) northwest of Quito.

Context

Earlier in the day, unidentified assailants shot and killed Juan Neira Jaime, a lawyer, outside his office at around 13:00. Authorities reportedly deployed special units to execute search and control missions. A government-mandated curfew is still in effect between 23:00 and 05:00.

Esmeraldas state, along with Guayas and Manabi, have been under a government state of emergency since April 30. The government is attempting to stem a wave of murder and violent crime, including targeted killings of police officers, related to gangs.

Advice

Avoid the blast sites until authorities have completed their investigation and given the all-clear. Keep away from areas where security personnel appear to be deploying or gathering. Heed all curfew orders and instructions of security personnel. Transportation disruptions likely through central Esmeraldas through early May 19.