New U.S. sanctions target cocaine smuggling network in Ecuador

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on 15 individuals and entities in Ecuador, along with 10 vessels, for their involvement in a maritime cocaine trafficking operation. This network, linked to designated terrorist organizations Los Choneros and Los Lobos, allegedly used fishing vessels to move thousands of kilograms of cocaine monthly to Mexican cartels for U.S. distribution. The sanctions freeze U.S.-based assets and prohibit U.S. persons from conducting business with those designated.

• U.S. imposes sanctions on 15 individuals and entities in Ecuador, plus 10 vessels.
• The network is linked to Los Choneros and Los Lobos, designated as foreign terrorist organizations.
• Fishing vessels operating out of Manta, Ecuador, were allegedly used to transport large quantities of cocaine.
• The cocaine was supplied to Mexican cartels for distribution in the U.S.
• Sanctions freeze U.S.-based assets and bar U.S. persons from doing business with the designated parties.
• The action is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt cartel operations and protect borders.
• The operation is tied to Operation Pacific Viper, which has seized over 225,000 pounds of cocaine.