Fito captured after 18 months of evasion in Ecuador
- Adolfo Macías, known as Fito, was hiding for 18 months after escaping from prison in Ecuador.
- His capture followed an extensive investigation led by Ecuadorian security forces, which linked the discovery of his whereabouts to unusual behavior by a municipal official.
- Fito's recapture is a significant victory for the Ecuadorian government as they plan to extradite him to the United States to face serious drug trafficking charges.
In Ecuador, notorious gang leader Adolfo Macías, known as Fito, was captured by security forces after being on the run for 18 months following his jailbreak in January 2024. He was discovered in an underground bunker beneath a lavish mansion in the coastal city of Manta, located about 260 kilometers southwest of the capital, Quito. The authorities’ search intensified when they noticed the suspicious behavior of a municipal transit official, who had ceased attending work and was linked to Macías' network. The investigation led to the discovery of the bunker and Macías' eventual capture. The Ecuadorian government implemented a comprehensive strategy to track down Macías' inner circle, which included a targeted crackdown on his family members, leading to several arrests and asset seizures. Interior Minister John Reimberg described these operations as crucial psychological warfare, helping to disrupt the gang's operations and ultimately locate their leader. Surveillance of the transit official provided the necessary intelligence that revealed Macías’ hiding place, culminating in a dramatic raid involving hundreds of armed soldiers who stormed the property. On the day of the operation, the authorities deployed drones and heavy machinery to excavate the area around the mansion after recognizing signs of underground concealment. When a portion of the roof began to collapse under the weight of the excavation, Macías, fearful for his life, surrendered to the officers. He exhibited signs of neglect and fatigue, appearing shirtless with an unkempt beard. Following his capture, he was transported to La Roca, Ecuador's most secure prison, located in Guayaquil. Macías is wanted by the United States for serious drug trafficking and weapons smuggling allegations. His recent arrest has reignited discussions about drug-related violence in Ecuador, where criminal organizations like Los Choneros exert significant influence. President Daniel Noboa has announced intentions to extradite Macías to the U.S. for prosecution. Officials expect that the extradition request will be processed within days, marking another significant move in Ecuador's battle against organized crime.