The South American nation, renowned for its global shrimp export, is presently undergoing a rise in criminal organizations operating in this industry. shrimp trafficking is of great concern.
Criminal organizations in Ecuador target boats and lorries transporting shrimp shipments. They are particularly attracted to these highly popular shellfish. The attacks occur repeatedly in the same locations: the Gulf of Guayaquil has become a hotbed for criminals. Shrimp farmers in the Guayas province, epicenter of drug-related violence, are not spared from the dangers.
Small and coveted marine animals
Producers, powerless and defenseless, are robbed even in their own production basins and are attacked at sea as on land. The robbers are armed and don’t hesitate to machine-gun the farmers. 50 victims, including two fatalities, have been claimed in 64 violent robberies since the beginning of the year. In April, two attacks, happening only one day apart, injured seven people. The National Chamber of Aquaculture (NCA), who gives all these information, suspects that the numbers have been decreased as a precaution against potential retaliation.
One out of every five shrimp served comes from Ecuador. The shrimp sector has become more profitable than the banana industry, earning a record-breaking of 7.3 billion dollars. Shrimp exports account for 22% of Ecuador’s total exports, making any losses a heavy blow. A single instance of theft can ruin a week’s worth of production, with smugglers selling their stolen goods on local markets or to unscrupulous traders. The latter reintroduce the pilfered prawns into the export and, therefor, retaining Ecuador’s wealth for their personal gain.
Thieves far more heavily armed than the police
Shrimp farmers work tirelessly, plagued by anxiety, in a daily routine that is constantly interrupted by violent attacks. The lack of security forces is a glaring issue in their fight for survival. Even during patrols, the Navy avoids venturing near shrimp farms, leaving farmers with no choice but to spend a considerable amount of resources on acquiring security equipment. This investment presents an inconvenience for the business in comparison to their competitors who do not face the same challenges in spending amounts of money to protect their property. Furthermore, India and China could be squeezing Ecuador out of the global market as they are among its most formidable competitors. As violence worsens in the Latin American nation, Ecuador is experiencing a serious reduction in profits.
