Cartel Watch (@CartelWatch)

Secretary Rubio designates Los Tiguerones a Foreign Terrorist Organization and sanctions 7 former Ecuadorian officials Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States has designated Ecuador’s Los Tiguerones as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist. The group has been linked to narcotrafficking, attacks on civilians and law enforcement, and the 2024 live takeover of an Ecuadorian television station. Rubio also announced sanctions against seven former Ecuadorian officials accused of taking bribes and collaborating with terrorist organizations. “As we dismantle these terrorist organizations, we also have to go after corrupt officials that collaborate and conspire with these terrorists,” Rubio said. He described the gangs as “violent, bloodthirsty terrorist organizations” and said the United States will keep pursuing both the groups and those who work with them. The designation follows earlier U.S. FTO listings of other Ecuador-based gangs, including Los Lobos and Los Choneros. Rubio made the announcement in Quito during a meeting with President Daniel Noboa.