Ecuador Gang Violence: Eight Severed Heads Found with Chilling Note
Police in Ecuador are investigating a horrifying discovery after two sacks containing eight human heads were found in a park, accompanied by a chilling three-word note. The gruesome find was made in the Jesus Maria parish of Naranjal, located in the central Guayas province, sparking fears of escalating gang-related violence in the region.
Details of the Macabre Discovery
According to Guayas Police Commander Colonel Marcelo Castillo, the severed heads were discovered at kilometre 66 in Naranjal canton. The note left with the remains read "No stealing allowed", suggesting a violent message from criminal organizations. The on-duty prosecutor has ordered the remains to be transferred to the Naranjal morgue for forensic examination to determine the identities of the victims.
Victims and Investigation
As reported by local media, the victims are believed to be males aged between 16 and 22. Seven of the eight victims have been identified:
- Luis Jhonny Zambrano Macías, 22
- Anthony Silvano Mendoza Quiroz, 22
- Limber Yancarlos Romero Baren, 21
- Josué Gregorio Romero Reyes, 19
- Kelvin Efraín Mendoza Meza, 18
- Édison Rodolfo Mera Macías, 18
- Cristopher, 16
The identity of the eighth victim remains unknown. Family members of the identified victims have reportedly refused to speak about the incident, while forensic doctor Fidel Penaranda stated the heads were likely severed approximately 60 hours before their discovery.
Community Impact and Reactions
The grim discovery has significantly impacted the local community, particularly during Carnival celebrations. Restaurant owner Welleginton Roman revealed that the deaths have brought holiday festivities to a complete halt, with nobody coming to celebrate as in previous years. Another resident, Sara Mota, explained that the news has kept people away from nighttime activities, affecting local businesses that have had to donate unsold food to charities.
Broader Context of Violence in Ecuador
This horrifying discovery contributes to an alarming pattern of violence across Ecuador. The finding of these eight heads brings the total discovered in the country to 13 in recent weeks, following five heads found hanging in the neighboring coastal province of Manabí on January 11. Those five heads were discovered on the popular tourist beach of Puerto López, indicating the spread of such violent tactics.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The National Police and the Prosecutor's Office have deployed special units from the National Directorate of Specialised Investigations to examine the case. The leading theory, according to authorities, is a violent clash between criminal groups, with the note serving as a warning against theft within gang territories. The police have launched a murder investigation with the conflict between local gangs serving as the initial lead.
