Mystery in Guayaquil: Missing Boys Found Dead Amid Military Investigation

Ecuador's attorney general confirmed the discovery of four missing boys' bodies, sparking national outrage. The military personnel's alleged involvement led to their detention as President Noboa's government faces pressure to address rising crime. Genetic testing identified the boys, aged 11 to 15, confirming their tragic fate.

Four boys reported missing earlier in December were found dead, escalating a national crisis in Ecuador. The attorney general's office announced the discovery last week, leading to the judicial detention of 16 military officers as authorities investigate the circumstances of their disappearance.

These children, aged between 11 and 15, vanished on December 8th from Guayaquil's Las Malvinas neighborhood, where they were last seen playing soccer. The incident has inflamed public anger, prompting demonstrations in Quito and other cities demanding accountability from the government.

The military claims the boys were detained for a robbery but later released. However, the bodies were found on December 24th in Taura, confirmed by genetic tests. The military personnel face possible disciplinary actions, with President Noboa calling for them to be national heroes as investigations continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)