US Treasury sanctions Ecuador-to-US cocaine trafficking network
Summary
The U.S. Treasury sanctioned 15 people linked to a cocaine trafficking network that moves drugs from Ecuador through Mexico to the United States. The operation uses Ecuadorian fishing boats to secretly transfer cocaine to fast boats that travel north to the U.S. The U.S. and Ecuador are cooperating to increase patrols and fight drug trafficking in the region.Key Facts
- The U.S. Treasury sanctioned 15 individuals involved in cocaine trafficking from Ecuador to the U.S.
- The drugs are moved using Ecuador-based fishing vessels near Manta, Ecuador, transferring cocaine to fast power boats heading north.
- The drugs pass through Mexico, controlled by cartels including the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG.
- The traffickers include members of Ecuadorian gangs Los Choneros and Los Lobos, labeled as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) by the U.S.
- Ecuador has seen a rise in drug-related violence, with a high homicide rate recorded in 2025.
- Ecuador’s government, led by President Daniel Noboa, works closely with President Donald Trump’s administration on anti-drug efforts.
- Two U.S. warships with helicopters and interceptor boats will begin patrolling Ecuador’s waters to help counter drug trafficking.
- The U.S. Southern Command is involved in expanding joint operations with Ecuador to stop drug shipments in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
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