Ecuador Enlists Blackwater Founder in Crime War

Overview

• President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador announced a strategic alliance with Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater, a private military firm.
• The partnership aims to bolster Ecuador's efforts in combating organized crime and illegal activities such as narco-terrorism and illegal fishing.
• Noboa tweeted about the alliance, emphasizing the need to strengthen capabilities against organized crime.

Political Context

• Daniel Noboa is seeking re-election in the upcoming Ecuadorian presidential election.
• The announcement is part of Noboa's strategy to present himself as a tough anti-crime leader.
• Noboa's administration recently announced a $1 million reward for capturing notorious drug leader Jos Adolfo Macas Villamar, aka Fito.

Security and Crime

• Ecuador's strategic location between Peru and Colombia makes it a significant transit point for cocaine trafficking.
• Noboa launched a crackdown on domestic gangs and foreign cartels in January 2024.
• The crackdown has faced criticism for human rights abuses, including torture and arbitrary arrests without effectively reducing crime.

Public and International Reaction

• The involvement of Erik Prince, known for human rights abuses in Iraq, has drawn criticism and concern.
• Ecuadorian lawyer Marlon Martnez Molina and author Cristina Burneo expressed fear and opposition to the alliance.
• Activist Soledad Angus Frer warned of potential negative outcomes.

Media and Ethical Concerns

• The Guardian emphasized its commitment to independent journalism amidst political pressures from the Trump administration.
• The article highlights The Guardian's practice of maintaining journalistic integrity without succumbing to political influence.

Conclusion

• Noboa's partnership with Erik Prince reflects a controversial approach to addressing crime in Ecuador.
• The upcoming elections amplify the importance of this alliance in Noboa's political strategy.
• The reception of this announcement varies with both support and significant criticism domestically and internationally.