Police in Zone 8 arrested four suspects allegedly guarding an arsenal of weapons and ammunition during an operation in a mangrove area in the Progreso parish, Ecuador.
Zone 8 commander Walter Villarroel reported the operation on Monday, September 7, 2026, saying the raid was carried out Sunday afternoon and resulted in the arrests and seizure of weapons and other equipment.
Authorities seized 16 rifles, 90 magazines and 5,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers, as well as five outboard motors, three boats and three cellphones.
Police said the operation represents a significant blow to the group known as “Los Preñados.” Authorities are continuing to investigate the origin of the weapons and equipment and their intended use.
