In a shocking turn of events, César Suárez, the public prosecutor leading the investigation into the on-air assault on an Ecuadorian television station, has been shot and killed in broad daylight in the crime-ridden city of Guayaquil. Suárez, known for his focus on cases involving organized trans-national crime in the violent Guayas province, was ambushed in the north of the city on Wednesday afternoon.

The attorney general, Diana Salazar, expressed her grief in a video posted on social media, stating, "The criminals, the terrorists, will not hold back our commitment to Ecuadorian society." She called on the forces of order to ensure the security of those performing their duties. Salazar's office is currently conducting a preliminary investigation at the crime scene, but no further details about the attack have been released.

The escalating violence in Ecuador has deeply unsettled the nation. Recent incidents include the assault on TC Television studio in Guayaquil, the hostage-taking of over 200 prison staff, multiple explosions in various cities, and the kidnapping of police officers. In response to the surge in criminal activities, President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency, implementing a nighttime curfew and designating 22 criminal groups as terrorist organizations.

Suárez, who had interviewed the 13 gunmen captured following the recapture of the TV station by special police forces, was actively investigating the mastermind behind the high-profile attack. His work also involved tackling drug trafficking and political corruption cases. In an interview with Ecuadorian newspaper El Universo earlier this week, Suárez revealed that he did not have a police bodyguard.

The tragic and brazen killing of César Suárez has sent shockwaves throughout Ecuador, as the country grapples with escalating violence and criminal activities. The investigation into his murder is underway, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of those involved in combating organized crime.