Ecuador President Daniel Noboa survived an attack on his convoy during a visit to the southern province of Canar. The incident happened in El Tambo on Tuesday when Noboa was heading to a local stadium for a public event. Environment and Energy Minister Ines Manzano said nearly 500 people threw stones, and bullet marks appeared on the president’s car. Noboa was safe after the attack.
Police quickly detained five people linked to the assault. They will face terrorism charges. Several vehicles in the convoy suffered damage during the chaos. Officials said the attackers wanted to stop the launch of a new community project.
The attack occurred during nationwide protests led by indigenous groups. The demonstrations began after the government ended diesel subsidies on September 12, which sharply raised fuel prices. Protesters have demanded that the decision be withdrawn.
Earlier this week, Noboa extended the state of emergency in four provinces and one canton for 30 days. The move followed a rise in organized crime. The decree also removed some constitutional protections, such as privacy and limits on home searches.
