A maximum-security prison is being built on a 16.2-hectare plot of land in Ecuador, which has generated rejection from local communities. These communities claim that the territory where the prison is intended to be built belongs to them ancestrally and have requested the Justice system to suspend the project to protect their right to prior consultation. Additionally, they argue that the area is an important ecosystem of tropical dry forest with native species.
The president of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, is promoting the construction of this prison, referred to as the 'Prison of Encounter', as part of his tough-on-crime strategy against organized crime, in a context where the country is facing a penitentiary crisis. This prison is intended to house about 800 inmates and is designated for leaders of criminal gangs.
The company in charge of construction is Puentes y Calzadas Infraestructuras, with a budget of 52 million dollars. Despite the questioning and rejection from nearby communities, President Noboa has reaffirmed his commitment to the project, highlighting its importance for the restructuring of the penitentiary system in Ecuador.
However, the construction has not been free of controversies and conflicts. On December 25, a bombing classified as 'terrorist' temporarily interrupted the work, causing even more concern among local communities. These communities fear not only the environmental impact that the prison may bring but also a possible increase in insecurity in the area.
Despite the criticism and resistance from the inhabitants, President Noboa continues with his plan, asserting that it is essential to address the issues of the Ecuadorian penitentiary system. With an estimated completion date for the third quarter of this year, the 'Prison of Encounter' project continues to generate controversy in Ecuador.
