09 May 2022 | 08:36 PM UTC
Ecuador: Gang-related prison riot leaves at least 43 inmates dead in Santo Domingo May 9
Gang-related prison riot leaves 43 inmates dead in Santo Domingo, Ecuador, May 9; retaliatory gang violence possible over near term.
Event
A prison riot left at least 43 inmates dead in Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas Province, May 9. Officials have indicated that the incident was a consequence of intergang violence. At least 80 prisoners who fled during the riot were later recaptured.
Heightened security measures are likely around the facility over the coming hours and days. Retaliatory gang-related violence is possible in the area over the near term.
Context
Deadly prison riots are common in Ecuador; in 2021, over 200 prisoners were killed in a series of uprisings related to a struggle by rival gangs to exert influence over the prison system.
Advice
Avoid the area of the prison. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
