A Cuban national named Reinel V. has been taken into custody in Quito, Ecuador. He is wanted by the United States on drug trafficking charges and was listed with an Interpol red notice, as reported by Ecuadorian authorities.
The arrest occurred on March 11 during a military operation conducted by the Ecuadorian Army in El Inca, a densely populated area in the northern part of the capital city.
The Ministry of Defense's statement reveals that Reinel V. is allegedly a member of Los Choneros, the oldest criminal organization operating in Ecuador.
Authorities claim that the Cuban suspect was involved in coordinating drug shipments from Ecuador to the United States and Europe, exploiting routes used by organized crime groups engaged in international drug trafficking.
According to official accounts, Reinel V. was found at a commercial establishment where he was reportedly employed as a manager. Ecuadorian military personnel entered the premises to carry out the arrest.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed that Reinel V. was flagged with an Interpol red alert, a tool used to locate and provisionally arrest individuals wanted by international justice systems for extradition purposes.
Following his arrest, the Cuban national was handed over to the Ecuadorian judicial system, where proceedings continue regarding his legal status and the extradition request from U.S. authorities.
Connections to Drug Trafficking Networks
Initial investigations suggest that Reinel V. is part of drug trafficking networks operating from Ecuador, using the country's maritime and logistical routes to transport drug shipments to international markets.
Authorities also allege his association with Los Choneros, a significant player in Ecuador's criminal landscape, known for its role in cocaine trafficking to North America and Europe, as well as involvement in other illicit activities.
Criminal organizations like these are accused of various crimes, including:
- Smuggling large quantities of cocaine to international destinations
- Controlling areas of illegal mining
- Extorting businesses and citizens through "protection" payments
Investigations have documented connections between Ecuadorian gangs and Mexican cartels, particularly those of Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation, which have strengthened the drug trafficking networks in the region.
Ecuador's Struggle Against Rising Crime
This arrest is part of the Ecuadorian government's crackdown on criminal organizations. Since early 2024, President Daniel Noboa has declared a "war" on criminal gangs, labeling them as terrorist organizations responsible for the country's surge in violence.
Despite these efforts, 2025 became Ecuador's deadliest year on record, with 9,235 homicides reported, according to official data.
Authorities argue that much of this violence stems from conflicts between criminal groups involved in the international drug trade, taking advantage of Ecuador's strategic position as a departure point for cocaine shipments—primarily from Colombia—heading to the United States and Europe.
In this context, the Cuban national's arrest is part of joint operations by Ecuadorian security forces and international agencies to combat transnational organized crime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Trafficking in Ecuador
What is the significance of an Interpol red notice?
An Interpol red notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.
How does Ecuador's strategic location affect drug trafficking?
Ecuador's proximity to major cocaine-producing countries like Colombia makes it a key transit point for international drug trafficking, facilitating the shipment of drugs to markets in the U.S. and Europe.
Who are Los Choneros?
Los Choneros is one of the oldest and most influential criminal organizations in Ecuador, involved in various illegal activities, notably drug trafficking to North America and Europe.