The United States and Ecuador militaries have launched a joint operation to combat drug trafficking.
The US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) reported on this.
The operation is aimed at countering criminal organizations that are recognized as terrorist groups.
“Together, we are taking decisive action to counter narco-terrorists who have long spread terror, violence, and corruption among citizens throughout the hemisphere,” the statement reads.
The US military noted that the joint operation “is an example of the commitment” of partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to the fight against narco-terrorism.
They published a video of part of the operation involving army helicopters.
Subsequently, the Ecuadorian Ministry of Defense stated that it was cooperating with the US in an “offensive” operation, adding that the details of the joint action were confidential.
The operation started after Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced on Monday joint actions with the US and other allies as part of new efforts against narco-terrorism and illegal mining, Reuters reports.
In October, the Ecuadorian armed forces used Soviet-made BM-21 Grad 122 mm multiple rocket launchers during a large-scale operation against the Los Lobos group.
The group is considered one of the most dangerous drug cartels in the country.
The Los Lobos cartel controls part of the drug trafficking from South America to the US and Europe, having its own armed formations.
The operation was part of the Ecuadorian government’s campaign to crack down on organized crime after a wave of attacks and prison riots.
