In a shocking turn of events, a group of armed men brazenly broke into a live television studio in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador. The incident occurred during a broadcast by station TC on Tuesday, sending waves of panic and chaos throughout the studio. The group, wearing hoods and brandishing guns, instilled fear as they threatened the staff present.

This disturbing incident took place amidst a 60-day state of emergency that was recently imposed in Ecuador. The state of emergency was declared following the mysterious disappearance of a convicted gang leader from his prison cell. The nation has been on high alert as authorities intensify their efforts to apprehend the escaped criminal.

The hooded intruders were captured on camera leaving the TC studio, leaving viewers in shock. Thankfully, police quickly responded to the scene and entered the set approximately 30 minutes after the gunmen initially appeared. National police units from Quito and Guayaquil were deployed to ensure the safety of all individuals involved.

Shortly after the incident, the country's national police force provided an update on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, stating that all staff members had been successfully evacuated from the studio. Later on, the police confirmed that several suspects had been apprehended, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.

In response to this disconcerting attack, President Daniel Noboa wasted no time in signing an executive order, declaring an internal armed conflict. He designated several organized crime groups as "terrorist organizations" and "non-state actors." The government is determined to bring an end to the escalating lawlessness plaguing the nation.

The University of Guayaquil, gravely concerned about the social unrest sweeping the country, has taken the precautionary measure of suspending all academic and administrative activities until further notice. As the entire nation grapples with the state of emergency, the focus remains on restoring order and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Tragically, the kidnapping of at least seven police officers by gang members has added to the already tense situation since the state of emergency was declared. The authorities are working diligently to secure the safe release of the officers and bring the culprits to justice.

The state of emergency was implemented by President Noboa following the escape of the notorious leader of the Los Choneros gang from a heavily fortified prison on Sunday. The impact of this escape was further amplified when nearly 40 other inmates, including a convicted drug lord, managed to break out from another prison in Riobamba, adding to the already volatile situation.

Rioting erupted in six jails throughout the nation, as the news of the gang leader's escape spread like wildfire. The empty prison cell only deepened the concerns surrounding the effectiveness of the country's prison system, and law enforcement agencies have been working tirelessly to address these glaring security flaws.

Furthermore, adding to the alarming series of events, 78-year-old Colin Armstrong from North Yorkshire, United Kingdom, was taken hostage from his farm near Guayaquil. At least 30 homes were raided as authorities intensified their search, leading to the safe recovery of Mr. Armstrong.

As Ecuador grapples with this unprecedented wave of criminal activities, the government, law enforcement agencies, and citizens are united in their determination to restore peace and security. Efforts to capture the escaped gang leader and restore order throughout the country are of paramount importance.