Ecuador plans expansion of mega-prisons to combat organized crime

Wednesday 29 April 2026 - 08:45

The government of Ecuador has announced plans to expand its network of high-security prisons as part of an aggressive strategy to combat organized crime and gang violence.

Interior Minister John Reimberg stated that authorities are prepared to build “as many prisons as necessary” to contain criminal groups that have fueled a surge in violence across the country. The initiative follows the recent opening of a maximum-security facility designed to house some of the most dangerous inmates, including members of powerful gangs.

Inspired in part by security models implemented in Central America, the new prison infrastructure aims to isolate high-risk offenders and disrupt criminal networks operating both inside and outside detention centers.

A second large-scale prison project, expected to accommodate up to 15,000 inmates, is scheduled to begin construction soon and could be completed within the next 18 months. Officials say such facilities are essential to restoring order in a country that has experienced a dramatic rise in crime.

Once considered relatively stable, Ecuador has become a key transit route for drug trafficking, particularly cocaine originating from neighboring countries. Authorities estimate that a significant share of regional drug flows passes through its territory, intensifying competition between criminal groups.

President Daniel Noboa has taken a hardline stance since taking office, declaring an internal armed conflict and deploying the military to support law enforcement operations. The government insists that strict measures are necessary to ensure national security.

However, human rights organizations have raised concerns about potential abuses linked to the crackdown, warning against excessive use of force and calling for oversight.

Officials also revealed that criminal groups have attempted to disrupt prison construction projects, including using drones in coordinated attacks, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing the authorities.

The government maintains that it will not negotiate with gangs and remains committed to dismantling criminal networks through sustained security efforts.