The sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife of Ecuador, once a rite of passage for British backpackers exploring South America, have become hunting grounds for some of the continent's most brutal criminal organisations.
The Rise of 'Los Killers'
At the centre of this escalating crisis stands the fearsome 'Los Killers' cartel, commanded by convicted mass murderer José 'JT' Alberto and his partner María Fernanda 'Nanda' Villacís. This glamorous yet deadly couple epitomises the new face of organised crime terrorising tourist destinations.
Villacís, known on social media for her designer lifestyle and lavish parties, stands accused of being the criminal mastermind behind operations that have left a trail of bloodshed across Ecuador's most popular coastal towns.
A Paradise Lost
Locations like Montañita, long celebrated for its bohemian atmosphere and surfing culture, have witnessed unprecedented violence. The very hostels and beaches that welcomed generations of British travellers now echo with gunfire and fear.
Recent months have seen:
- Three women tortured to death in acts of unspeakable brutality
- Executions live-streamed on social media platforms
- Tourist areas becoming battlegrounds for territorial disputes
- Local businesses extorted under threat of violence
Britain's Backpacking Community at Risk
With Ecuador remaining a popular destination for gap year students and adventure travellers from the UK, concerns are mounting about the safety of British nationals. The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, warning visitors to exercise increased caution in coastal regions.
One British expat, who asked to remain anonymous, told us: "We've watched this beautiful place transform from a peaceful haven into something out of a nightmare. The police seem powerless against these cartels."
International Response
Ecuadorian authorities have launched Operation Metropolitan Shield in an attempt to reclaim tourist areas, but the deeply entrenched criminal networks continue to operate with shocking impunity. The situation has drawn international attention, with human rights organisations condemning the escalating violence.
As the sun sets on what was once South America's safest backpacking route, travellers and locals alike wonder if this paradise can ever be reclaimed from the grip of cartels like Los Killers.
