In a shocking incident that unfolded on live television, an Ecuadorian journalist, Jose Luis Calderon, bravely revealed the terrifying threats made by a group of hooded gunmen after they stormed a TV studio in Guayaquil. The masked assailants, influenced by the escalating wave of gang crime gripping Ecuador, targeted Calderon while he was on air, placing an improvised explosive device in his jacket and warning him of dire consequences if the police arrived.

The tense episode occurred on Tuesday night at the TC network's studios. As viewers watched in disbelief, Calderon flawlessly maintained his composure while one of the gunmen held a shotgun to his throat. The journalist recounted the chilling ordeal to Sky News, stating that the assailants repeatedly threatened to kill him if law enforcement officials intervened.

During the harrowing experience, Calderon also disclosed how the gunmen touched his colleagues inappropriately and led them to the still-live TV studio. The fear-stricken staff members were forced onto the floor, while Calderon disclosed the imminent danger they all faced.

However, amidst the chaos, Calderon managed to keep a level head, even contacting his relatives and alerting the authorities about the unfolding crisis. Eventually, the police arrived at the scene and engaged in a shootout with the armed gang, leading to their dispersal and subsequent arrest.

Ecuador's attorney general's office confirmed that 13 individuals were apprehended for forcibly entering the TV studio. They will face charges related to terrorism offenses. If convicted, each gunman could face up to 13 years in prison.

The incident comes amid a surge of violence and unrest in Ecuador following the escape of notorious drug lord Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito," from La Regional prison. Inmates associated with criminal gangs have been wreaking havoc across the country, torching cars, conducting daylight executions, and taking hostages. The situation has pushed Ecuador to the brink of civil war and left its citizens living in fear.

In a recent development, all 136 hostages, including prison guards and administrative staff seized during prison riots, were successfully freed on Saturday night, according to the SNAI prison authorities. The release was made possible through the joint efforts of the police, armed forces, and security protocols put in place. President Daniel Noboa expressed his gratitude to the armed forces, national police, and SNAI for their patriotic and courageous work.

The crisis caused by the escape of "Fito" has sparked widespread security measures, including a deployment of over 22,400 military personnel, nightly curfews, and a crackdown on criminal groups. Ecuadorian authorities have charged two prison guards in relation to the escape, and intensive efforts are underway to locate the fugitive drug lord.

The events described by Calderon serve as a stark reminder of the dangerous and volatile environment that journalists face in their pursuit of truth. Despite the grave risks, journalists like Calderon demonstrate extraordinary bravery in bringing vital stories to the public's attention, shedding light on the urgent need for comprehensive security measures and a concerted effort to address Ecuador's escalating gang crime problem.