Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has formed a controversial alliance with Erik Prince to combat organized crime, raising concerns among military leaders. The partnership aims to address increasing violence linked to narcoterrorism, but details are scant. Ecuador struggles with a high homicide rate and necessitates international aid to enhance its security efforts.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has announced a controversial partnership with Erik Prince, founder of the notorious private defense contractor previously known as Blackwater, aimed at combatting organized crime. This announcement follows Noboa’s prior initiation of a military operation against criminal groups. The president shared a photo with Prince on social media, emphasizing their commitment to combating narcoterrorism and illegal fishing. However, specific details of this alliance remain unclear.
The announcement has sparked criticism from various quarters in Ecuador. Former Army commander Luis Altamirano condemned the arrangement, labeling it “deplorable” for attempting to engage what he refers to as a “mercenary army”. He questioned whether this alliance is merely a facade for international cooperation, expressing concern over the legitimacy and intent behind such partnerships.
Erik Prince, who gained notoriety for his involvement in the Iraq War and as a supporter of former President Donald Trump, currently describes himself as an investor and entrepreneur focused on military reforms. His past controversies continue to shadow his business dealings, raising questions regarding his role in fostering security initiatives abroad.
In response to escalating gang violence in Ecuador, Noboa has called for international aid, arguing that local criminal organizations linked to drug cartels require significant foreign intervention. With a homicide rate of 38.8 per 100,000 inhabitants, Ecuador experiences alarming levels of violence, further compounded by a historical record of over 1,000 homicides at the outset of the year.
Ecuador’s decision to partner with Erik Prince for combating organized crime has prompted significant debate regarding the implications of employing private military resources. President Noboa’s push for international collaboration reflects the urgency of addressing rising violence in the country. The forthcoming measures and the role of foreign forces remain under scrutiny, as Ecuador seeks to reclaim safety amid an escalating crisis.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
