13 Nov 2022 | 01:12 PM UTC
Ecuador: Authorities have reduced curfew hours in Esmeraldas, Guayas and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces as of Nov. 13 /update 2
Authorities have reduced curfew hours in Esmeraldas, Guayas and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces, Ecuador, as of Nov. 13.
Event
Authorities in Ecuador have reduced the curfew in Esmeraldas, Guayas and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces by two hours, to 23:00-05:00 nightly as of Nov. 13. During those hours, individuals will not be allowed to leave their residences without permission, except for emergencies, and those traveling to and from airports starting at 23:00. The curfew is part of a state of exception currently in place in Esmeraldas, Guayas and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces through at least Dec. 15. The state of exception was implemented in Esmeraldas, and Guayas Nov. 1, and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas Nov. 5 due to several deadly attacks on law enforcement officers.
Heightened security is likely in areas subject to the state of exception, and authorities may partially suspend certain rights and liberties. Authorities may also establish security checkpoints and impose other restrictions on movement, particularly after dark. Law enforcement agencies, including the military, may increase their patrols and/or execute warrantless searches on vehicles, persons, or premises. Localized business and transport disruptions are likely for the duration of the state of exception.
Context
Between late Oct. 31 and early Nov. 1, two police officers were killed in the Guayaquil area and there were at least seven explosives attacks in the city; four of them targeted different police headquarters. Similar incidents were recorded earlier in the year. The Ecuadorian government had already imposed a state of exception in Guayaquil and surrounding areas between August and mid-October due to high levels of criminal activity.
Advice
Avoid areas where security operations are ongoing. Strictly follow the instructions of security personnel; remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Ensure travel documents are accessible at all times. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.
