Eight Bodies Found Amidst Ecuador’s Drug Gang Warfare

On June 3, 2026, Ecuadoran police discovered eight bodies in plastic bags in a southwestern region known for narco-trafficking. The victims were found near Babahoyo, following the disappearance of eight individuals on Sunday. They were traveling from Daule to Milagro, located about 30 miles south of Babahoyo.

Details of the Incident

Colonel Galo Munoz, the police chief of the area, confirmed the discovery of the bodies. A note at the scene suggested Los Lobos gang targeted the victims, possibly related to their conflict with the rival gang Los Choneros.

Some of the missing individuals were reportedly related, and two were minors. Their families identified them as farmers from Daule, a prominent rice-growing region.

Background of Violence

Los Lobos and Los Choneros are major criminal groups in Ecuador. These gangs are involved in drug trafficking and extortion and maintain connections with international cartels. The United States designated Los Lobos as a terrorist organization in September.

Ecuador has become a significant passageway for cocaine reaching international markets. Approximately 70% of the cocaine from Colombia and Peru, leading producers, passes through Ecuador. The competition for control over the drug trade has escalated violence, especially in key port cities like Guayaquil and Manta.

Government Response

Ecuador recorded over 9,200 violent deaths last year, setting a grim record. Right-wing President Daniel Noboa has enforced curfews and deployed the military to tackle gang activities, with support from the United States. American and Ecuadorian forces have joined efforts to disband suspected criminal operations along the coast.

In January, authorities discovered six young people’s bodies in Santa Elena province, near Guayas province, where Guayaquil is located. These incidents underscore the ongoing crisis of gang-related violence in Ecuador.

Recent Developments

Ecuador continues to struggle with gang violence, exacerbated by the recapture of drug lord Adolfo Macías. Leading Los Choneros, Macías was recaptured in June 2025 after escaping prison in 2024. The Ecuadoran government extradited him to the United States in July 2025, where he faces numerous charges for drug trafficking and firearms crimes.