The number of intentional homicides in Ecuador increased by 40.36% nationwide between January and July 2025, compared to 2024, When reaching 5,268, a report from the Interior Ministry revealed Thursdayin the most violent seven period registered in the last decade.
The rebound, with respect to the 3,753 homicides registered between January and July of last year, It occurs despite President Daniel Noboa’s efforts to combat violence of criminal gangs in the South American country.
The group most affected by homicides were people between 25 and 34 years old, According to the Ministry’s report, and most homicides were committed with firearms.
Noboa has deployed the army on the streets since January 2024, when he declared an internal war against criminal gangsand Legislators have approved reforms that, according to the president, will help stop crimeincluding more severe sentences for drug trafficking. He has also presumed a 15% reduction in homicides in 2024.
The Government has attributed the increase in violence in recent months to clashes among criminals that seek to control drug trafficking routes, but that are under pressure from security forces.
Last month, The Government extradited the leader of the Criminal Band Los Choneros, José Adolfo Macías, known as Fito, to the United States to face international drug and weapons traffic charges. He declared himself not guilty.
Throughout 2024, 7,062 intentional homicides were recordedaccording to data from the Ministry of Interior.
