Locations: Guayaquil, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Esmeraldas, and Duran
Event: Since the early-morning hours of November 1, transnational criminal groups and local gangs have attacked several government and public venues in Guayaquil, Esmeraldas, Santo Domingo, and Duran. Criminals have conducted attacks on multiple police stations and gas stations, a bus station, and a medical facility. Five Ecuadorian police officers and two citizens have been killed, and at least six more police officers have been injured. The situation remains dangerous. We urge you to remain vigilant and to take the below precautionary measures.
In response to ongoing coordinated attacks, the Government of Ecuador issued executive order 588 November 1 and declared a 45-day State of Emergency in Guayas and Esmeraldas provinces through December 16. The order permits the armed forces and police to take actions necessary to maintain public order, suspends the right of assembly in public spaces for groups infringing on the rights of others, and allows home searches without a judicial order in the two provinces. The order also imposes a daily curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. in the two provinces.
Please take the following actions:
- Exercise extreme caution and maintain increased vigilance in Guayaquil, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Esmeraldas, and Duran.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid large gatherings.
- Limit travel to daylight hours.
- Monitor local news for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
- Check your map application for alternate routes as some roads may be closed.
- Enroll in STEP to receive security updates.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Quito, Ecuador
+(593)(2) 398-5000
+(593)(2) 398-5000(after hours)
ACSQuito@state.gov
- U.S. Consulate General Guayaquil, Ecuador
+(593)(4) 371-7000
+(593)(4) 371-7000(after hours)
ACSGuayaquil@state.gov
