Five Heads Found on Ecuador Beach

Five severed human heads were discovered hanging from ropes on a beach in Colombia — Puerto López, Meta, Ecuador, accompanied by a warning sign targeting alleged extortionists of fishermen. This incident is attributed to ongoing conflicts between criminal groups involved in drug trafficking, which have turned Ecuador into a major logistical center for drug distribution. The Ecuador — Manabí Province, where Colombia — Puerto López, Meta is located, has seen a surge in violent episodes, including massacres in Colombia — Puerto López, Meta and Manta. Ecuador recorded over 9,000 homicides in 2025, making it the most violent year on record. President Daniel Noboa has declared a state of emergency in nine provinces to combat the violence. The country's location between Colombia and Peru, both major cocaine producers, has exacerbated the issue, with criminal groups linked to international cartels expanding their operations.