Are most kidnappings linked to major drug cartels in Ecuador?

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Most Kidnappings in Ecuador Are Not Linked to Major Drug Cartels

The majority of kidnappings and extortion incidents in Ecuador are attributed to common criminals, such as bus robbers and low-profile thieves, rather than large drug trafficking organizations. While Ecuador has thirteen major crime gangs, many of the current criminal activities, including kidnappings, do not have direct ties to prominent groups like Los Lobos and Tiguerones, which are associated with Mexican cartels.
Common Criminals Drive Kidnapping Rates

Kidnapping and extortion activities in Ecuador are primarily carried out by individuals involved in lower-level criminal enterprises. These include bus robbers and petty thieves who engage in these acts for financial gain, often seeking ransoms as low as US$5,000. This indicates that a significant portion of these crimes are not orchestrated by sophisticated, large-scale criminal syndicates.
Limited Connection to Major Drug Gangs

Despite the presence of thirteen major crime gangs in Ecuador, many of the recent criminal escalations, including kidnappings, have no direct links to major drug gangs such as Los Lobos and Tiguerones. Security analysts suggest that established drug cartels might find it more efficient to focus on large-scale drug trafficking rather than engaging in the complexities of kidnapping negotiations.
Rise in Criminal Tactics

Ecuador has witnessed a disturbing rise in criminal tactics, with kidnappers increasingly resorting to brutal methods like amputating victims' fingers to extort higher ransoms from relatives. For the first five months of 2023, reported kidnappings tripled to 189 cases compared to 60 cases in the same period in 2022, a figure believed to be underreported. This escalation in violence has put pressure on the government amidst a public safety crisis.

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Are most kidnappings linked to major drug cartels in Ecuador?

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