Seven killed in latest Ecuador pool hall shooting

Recent Violence in Ecuador: Gunmen killed at least seven people at a pool hall in Santo Domingo, marking another incident of escalating gang violence linked to organized crime in Ecuador, where the homicide rate has significantly increased due to drug trafficking activities.

Government Response and Challenges: Despite President Daniel Noboa's efforts to combat crime through states of emergency and police operations, violence persists, with over 4,051 homicides reported in the first five months of 2024, indicating a severe crisis in public safety.