Ecuador's interior minister says the country is preparing a major crackdown on criminal groups set to begin this weekend with logistical support from the United States. Interior Minister John Reimberg on Wednesday told a local radio station that the government wants to avoid civilian casualties. He is also urging people to follow a nightly curfew from March 15 to March 30. It covers Guayas, Los Ríos and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. Thos are three of the country's most violent provinces. He said that roads need to stay clear for troop movements and equipment. Ecuador has faced rising organized crime since 2021 that officials link drug cartels.
