Three inmates have been killed and six others injured in a riot that occurred at the Regional Prison of Guayaquil in Ecuador. 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 police and armed forces 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 against the treatment they received 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 by Ecuadorian Justice to be prosecuted for terrorism charges. Relatives of the inmates gathered outside the prison, demanding information and protesting against their loved ones’ treatment.

They expressed concerns about human rights violations committed by military personnel during their time inside prison, including reports of abuse and mistreatment towards prisoners since the state of emergency was declared.

During the militarization process, there have been reports of human rights violations by military personnel. The Guayaquil Regional Prison has been a frequent target for operations aimed at seizing weapons and prohibited items from inmates. The prison complex has a history of gang control and extortion among its inhabitants, leading to unrest and violence.

The situation remains tense within Ecuador’s prison system as ongoing efforts are made to address internal conflicts and improve conditions for inmates. The government’s response to recent events has sparked criticism from human rights organizations and relatives of prisoners who continue to call for a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that prioritizes humane treatment for all those within our justice systems.