Echoes of El Salvador’s approach

(MENAFN- The Rio Times) President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador has launched an ambitious project to build a high-security prison in Santa Elena province. The ‘El Encuentro prison’ aims to isolate dangerous prisoners and gang leaders.

Noboa personally visited the construction site and demonstrated his commitment to the $54 million project covering 37 hectares.

This initiative has similarities with El Salvador’s approach under President Nayib Bukele, albeit on a smaller scale.

Both leaders prioritize maximum security prisons to combat organized crime. The Ecuadorian facility will feature cutting-edge technology, including AI-linked video surveillance for real-time monitoring of prisoners.

The project responds to the ongoing prison crisis in Ecuador, where more than 500 prisoners have died due to gang violence since 2021.

Noboa has taken a strong stance, declaring an “internal armed conflict” against organized crime groups in January. While Bukele’s approach reflects Bukele’s tactics, Ecuador’s approach takes into account its unique context.

The country’s criminal networks are reportedly more disorganized than El Salvador’s hierarchical gangs, potentially affecting the effectiveness of the strategy. Ecuador’s legal framework also differs: Noboa labels criminal groups as terrorists.

Despite potential challenges, Noboa remains optimistic. He envisions transforming detention centers from crime centers to rehabilitation centers, in line with his broader security strategy.

Construction of the prison is 12% complete, with an ambitious completion time of 300 days. As the project progresses, it could have far-reaching implications for Ecuador’s approach to crime and security.

It could also affect other countries facing similar challenges. While Ecuador’s unique context will draw inspiration from El Salvador, it will ultimately determine the plan’s effectiveness in balancing security needs with other considerations.
Background
Ecuador has taken a bold step to tackle rising drug-related violence. President Daniel Noboa declared a partial state of emergency on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

This measure affects Quito and six of Ecuador’s 24 provinces. The decision is aimed at curbing the growing threat from drug trafficker groups.

The state of emergency will last 60 days. It covers important areas including Guayas, Manabí, Los Ríos, Santa Elena, El Oro and Orellana.

Quito and the canton of Camilo Ponce in Azuay are also included. This step marks a significant effort to combat organized crime.

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