AFP via Getty ImagesPolice in Ecuador have arrested four individuals in connection with a gunmen attack at a cockfighting ring, resulting in 12 deaths.
Weapons and replica police and army uniforms were seized during police raids in the northwestern Manabí province, a day after the attack in the rural community of La Valencia.
Footage of the attack shared on social media showed gunmen entering the ring and opening fire, as terrified spectators dived for cover.
Reports in local media suggested the attackers in fake military gear were members of a criminal gang whose rivals were present at the cockfight.
A criminal investigation has been launched by the provincial authorities.
It is estimated that up to 20 criminal gangs are operating in the Latin American country, vying for control over major drug routes.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa stated that approximately 70% of the world’s cocaine now flows through the country’s ports before being shipped to the US and Europe.
The drug is smuggled into Ecuador from neighbouring Colombia and Peru – the largest producers of cocaine in the world.
In January, there were 781 reported murders, making it the deadliest month in recent years, with many related to the illicit drug trade.
