The extensive operation that led to his capture lasted 10 hours, involving a coordinated effort between police and military personnel. Authorities had been surveilling a lavish three-story home in the city's Monterrey neighborhood before launching their assault. Upon breaching the residence, officers discovered a disguised sliding trapdoor that led to Fito's underground lair, complete with air conditioning, sleeping amenities, and a refrigerator, alongside recreational facilities above ground.
Fito’s capture has drawn praise from Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who confirmed plans for his extradition to the United States on drug smuggling charges. The apprehension comes after Fito had escaped from prison earlier this year, a high-profile event that sparked waves of violence across the nation, including riots and hostage situations involving prison guards. Amidst these tumultuous times, Noboa, who had only recently taken office, promised to confront and dismantle the growing gang influence that had plagued his country.
Despite his imprisonment for serious drug trafficking and murder charges amounting to a 34-year sentence, Fito remained a prominent figure in the gang underworld, even managing Los Choneros from behind bars and solidifying dangerous partnerships with infamous cartels like Mexico’s Sinaloa. His brazen lifestyle included appearances in a narcocorrido music video, which showcased his notorious image and criminal affiliations, further emphasizing the extent of his influence within the drug trade. President Noboa expressed optimism about future successes against drug lords, stating, “More [drug lords] will fall; we will regain control of the country.”
With Fito's imprisonment, hopes rise for a turning point in Ecuador's battle against drug-related crime and gang violence, though the path ahead remains perilous.
Fito’s capture has drawn praise from Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who confirmed plans for his extradition to the United States on drug smuggling charges. The apprehension comes after Fito had escaped from prison earlier this year, a high-profile event that sparked waves of violence across the nation, including riots and hostage situations involving prison guards. Amidst these tumultuous times, Noboa, who had only recently taken office, promised to confront and dismantle the growing gang influence that had plagued his country.
Despite his imprisonment for serious drug trafficking and murder charges amounting to a 34-year sentence, Fito remained a prominent figure in the gang underworld, even managing Los Choneros from behind bars and solidifying dangerous partnerships with infamous cartels like Mexico’s Sinaloa. His brazen lifestyle included appearances in a narcocorrido music video, which showcased his notorious image and criminal affiliations, further emphasizing the extent of his influence within the drug trade. President Noboa expressed optimism about future successes against drug lords, stating, “More [drug lords] will fall; we will regain control of the country.”
With Fito's imprisonment, hopes rise for a turning point in Ecuador's battle against drug-related crime and gang violence, though the path ahead remains perilous.
