In a shocking turn of events, armed men infiltrated the set of a public television channel in Ecuador, threatening those present during a live broadcast. The incident occurred as the nation grapples with a series of attacks following the imposition of a state of emergency by the government. This comes in the aftermath of the apparent escape of a notorious gang leader from prison.

The TC Television network in Guayaquil was disrupted when masked assailants entered the premises, declaring the presence of bombs. The sound of gunshots resonated in the background as chaos unfolded. Despite the alarming circumstances, the channel managed to broadcast live for approximately 15 minutes before the transmission was abruptly cut off. Viewers witnessed the harrowing scenes as employees took cover on the floor, with the frantic pleas of "Don't shoot!" echoing in the background.

Responding swiftly, Ecuador's police deployed several units to the media facilities, as confirmed on their social media account. Prior to this incident, Ecuador had already experienced a wave of attacks, including explosions and the abduction of multiple police officers. Four officers remain missing, with one from Quito and three from Quevedo.

Investigations have led to the arrest of two individuals suspected of possessing explosives and potentially being involved in one of the attacks within the country. However, authorities have not yet revealed the total number of incidents or identified the perpetrators behind these series of assaults. In recent years, Ecuador has faced escalating violence associated with drug trafficking, involving homicides and kidnappings.

The trigger for the state of emergency was the disappearance of Adolfo Macías, also known as "Fito," the leader of the Los Choneros gang. Macías was scheduled to be moved to a maximum-security facility, but it was discovered he was not in his low-security prison cell. While an investigation is underway to determine whether he escaped or is still within the facility, two guards have already been charged in connection with the incident. Notably, Macías had previously escaped from a high-security facility in 2013 before being recaptured.

Immediately after President Daniel Noboa declared the state of emergency for 60 days, granting the authorities enhanced powers and permitting the mobilization of the military, a wave of attacks ensued. The government also imposed a curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., starting Monday night. President Noboa expressed his determination to restore peace and confront crime in an Instagram message.

Los Choneros, with its ties to Mexico's Sinaloa cartel, is considered one of the main gangs responsible for the surge in violence within Ecuador. Authorities acknowledge the influence and control gang members exert from inside prisons. Macías, being a high-profile figure, was believed to maintain command over his group despite his incarceration.

As Ecuador grapples with the aftermath of these attacks, the government faces the challenge of restoring security and protecting its citizens. The nation's law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to apprehend those responsible for the recent incidents and to prevent further acts of violence.