Ecuador Judges Order Detention in Disappearance Case

An Ecuadorian judge ordered the detention of 16 air force members due to their alleged involvement in the disappearance of four minors. The case has led to widespread protests. The disappearances happened amid a crime crackdown, with military involvement in law enforcement efforts under President Daniel Noboa.

A judge in Ecuador has ordered the detention of 16 members of the country's air force as prosecutors investigate their possible involvement in the forced disappearance of four minors. According to the attorney general's office, the children vanished on December 8 from a Guayaquil neighborhood.

The incident has fueled nationwide outrage, triggering protests in the capital city of Quito and beyond as the public demands answers regarding the youths' whereabouts. Retiree Fernando Bustamante, 70, voiced frustration outside the Guayaquil court, criticizing the lack of response from the government and authorities.

The disappearances occurred during a state-led crime crackdown spearheaded by President Daniel Noboa, who labeled 22 criminal gangs as terrorist organizations. This initiative has included states of emergency, allowing the military to assist with street patrols and law enforcement operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)