Prisoners in Ecuador seize guards as retaliation for drug lord's getaway

Ecuador is facing a crisis as riots have broken out in at least six prisons, and inmates have taken prison guards hostage. The unrest was sparked by the escape of a notorious gang boss, known as Fito, who was not found in his cell during a scheduled transfer. Fito is the leader of the powerful Los Choneros gang, which is responsible for various criminal activities including contract killings, extortion, and drug dealing. The gang has connections with Mexico's Sinaloa drugs cartel, which smuggles cocaine through Ecuador's port cities. Fito's escape is a setback for President Noboa's government, and further violence has erupted in the aftermath. The President has declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew to regain control and prevent further incidents. Several police officers have also been kidnapped in separate incidents. The situation is alarming, with explosions reported in one city and demands for an end to prison transfers. The security forces are currently working to restore order in the affected prisons and locate the escaped gang leader.