Ecuadorian shrimp sector urges private entities to boost security

The National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA) in Ecuador has reported limitations in resources, technology, and equipment of the authorities responsible for controlling the criminal structures that threaten the national shrimp industry.

As a result, the CNA has urged the private sector to prioritize strengthening security by taking advantage of the benefits established in the Organic Law for the Strengthening of Comprehensive Security and Citizen Solidarity.

This would allow for direct contributions to authorized institutions while also providing access to tax incentives. Additionally, it would help protect personnel in high-risk areas, ensure safe production environments, and maintain the continuity of aquaculture activities.

Currently, more than a thousand operations are being carried out each month in strategic areas, both by land and river. This task is coordinated by the National Police and the General Directorate of Aquatic Spaces (DIRNEA) of the Ecuadorian Navy.

Finally, the CNA warns of the danger posed by the early release of individuals detained in operations against organized crime without a "rigorous" and "responsible" process.

In June 2024, WeAreAquaculture reported that a security guard protecting a shrimp feed truck was the latest victim of organized crime in Ecuador. The murder occurred just twelve days after a shrimp businessman was also murdered by a group of extortionists in the province of El Oro, according to police investigations.