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In Guayaquil, Ecuador, a riot occurred at the Regional Prison, leaving three prisoners dead and six others injured. The government has declared a state of emergency due to an “internal armed conflict” against organized crime gangs. The National Service of Comprehensive Attention to Persons Deprived of Liberty (SNAI) confirmed the number of deceased prisoners and injured individuals after the riot.
The disturbances within the prison began late at night with explosions and fires caused by inmates burning mattresses. It took the police and armed forces around four hours to regain control of the prison, which is part of a larger complex housing around 12,000 prisoners. The inmates were reportedly protesting the treatment by the military during the militarization of Ecuadorian prisons under the state of emergency.
Two prisoners have been identified as allegedly responsible for inciting the riot and have been placed under custody to be prosecuted for terrorism crimes. Relatives of the inmates gathered outside the prison, demanding information and protesting against their treatment. They expressed concerns about human rights violations that their loved ones have faced since the state of emergency was declared.
During the militarization of prisons under state emergencies, there have been reports of human rights violations by security forces. The Guayaquil Regional Prison has been a frequent target for operations to seize weapons and prohibited items from its population due to its history of gang control and extortion among its inmates, leading to unrest and violence.
The situation remains tense with ongoing efforts to address internal conflicts and improve conditions for inmates while also sparking criticism from human rights organizations and relatives regarding how authorities are managing prisons under state emergencies.
In light of recent events, it is clear that there is a need for a comprehensive approach to prison management that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment and respects human rights standards set out by international bodies such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.
The government should work closely with these organizations to develop policies that address issues such as overcrowding, poor living conditions, lack of access to education, healthcare, legal representation, etc., all factors contributing to increased tension within prisons.
Furthermore, officials should recognize that addressing criminality requires addressing poverty levels within communities that lead people towards criminal activities in search for a better life.
In conclusion, it is essential for Ecuador’s government to adopt an evidence-based approach that balances public safety with respect for individual rights when dealing with criminals or suspects who pose risks to society.