Assassinated Ecuadorian Presidential Candidate Laid to Rest

Quito, Ecuador
CNN

Private Burial Ceremony

Fernando Villavicencio, the assassinated Ecuadorian presidential candidate, was buried in a private ceremony in the country’s capital, Quito, on Friday night. The burial took place at the Monteolivo cemetery in northern Quito and was attended by Villavicencio’s campaign team and his closest relatives.

A Vocal Critic of Drug Trafficking Violence

Villavicencio, a prominent anti-corruption campaigner and lawmaker, was known for his outspoken stance against drug trafficking violence in Ecuador. Tragically, he was gunned down at a campaign rally in Quito just days before the first round of the presidential election.

Arrests Made in Connection with Assassination

Authorities have announced that six suspects, all Colombian nationals and gang members, have been arrested in connection with Villavicencio’s assassination. The suspected shooter died in police custody after exchanging fire with security personnel. However, the shooter’s nationality remains unclear.

Deteriorating Security Crisis

Ecuador, once a relatively peaceful nation, is currently facing a deteriorating security crisis fueled by drug trafficking and clashes between rival criminal organizations. The violence has been particularly severe on the country’s Pacific coast, where criminal groups are vying for control of the narcotics trade.

International Condemnation and Investigation

The assassination of Villavicencio has sparked condemnation from around the world. The UN Human Rights chief, the United States, and the European Union have all voiced their disapproval. In response, Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso has requested assistance from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the investigation.

Seizure of Weapons and Vehicles

As part of the investigation, authorities have seized a significant amount of weapons and vehicles believed to be connected to the assassination. The confiscated items include rifles, pistols, grenades, ammunition, motorcycles, and a stolen vehicle.