Ecuador Police Detonate Drone Carrying Explosives Over Prison Roof

Ecuadorian police have neutralized a drone carrying explosives on the roof of La Roca, a maximum-security prison in Guayaquil, in a repeat of a similar attack last year, Bloomberg reports.

police detonated 3 pounds of explosives to blow up the drone carrying 40 pounds of explosives, deeming it the “lesser evil” to prevent structural damage to the prison. The 78 inmates, including high-profile drug gang leaders, were safely relocated before the explosion and remain in good condition.

La Roca holds some of the most dangerous criminals in Ecuador, who are at the heart of a fierce crackdown declared by President Daniel Noboa in January. The prison was taken over by the military after a series of violent riots claimed the lives of over 400 inmates.

This incident, the most serious since the military takeover, raises concerns about the effectiveness of security measures within the prison system. Interior Minister Monica Palacios believes the attack may have been an attempt to force the government to relocate prisoners or enable them to escape.

Last year, a similar drone attack caused significant damage to La Roca, leading to the escape of drug lord alias Fito and exacerbating the security crisis.

In the wake of this latest incident, the government has announced immediate measures, including deploying snipers to intercept any future drone attacks. Ecuador is also exploring the acquisition of technology to enhance prison security against drone threats.