Operation Phoenix: 13 suspected members of Los Lobos detained across three provinces
The National Police arrested 13 people linked to the criminal group Los Lobos in Los Ríos, Bolívar and Chimborazo following seven months of investigation.
Thirteen arrested in operation against Los Lobos in Ecuador
The National Police of Ecuador arrested 13 people on 30 September 2026 allegedly linked to the criminal group "Los Lobos", according to reports from ecuador221.com.ec. The operation, named "PHOENIX 0547", was carried out in the provinces of Los Ríos, Bolívar and Chimborazo as part of the 3D Operational Strategy, aimed at weakening, disorganising and dismantling criminal structures.
The operation was led by the National Directorate of Criminal Investigation of the Police Judiciary, in coordination with the General Prosecutor's Office, tactical units and specialised personnel. The actions resulted from seven months of investigations.
During the simultaneous raids, officers located the suspected members of a structure under investigation for extortion, kidnapping and illegal possession of firearms. Three of those detained are persons deprived of liberty who, according to investigations, allegedly continued operating from within correctional facilities.
The investigations determined that the individuals allegedly extorted owners of commercial establishments and citizens from Guayas and Los Ríos provinces through intimidating messages and armed attacks, demanding payments into bank accounts belonging to third parties.
Among those captured are Ronald David S.C. and Adrián Esteban R.H., identified as Individuals of Relevant Criminal Interest (IIPR). Both have records for robbery, carrying and possession of firearms, and trafficking in controlled substances. The remaining eleven detainees also have records linked to various illicit activities. Among the total arrested are six women.
Evidence gathered during the operations will be subjected to the corresponding expert examinations by the competent authorities.
Source: Google News EC — Crime