Post by : Rameen Ariff

Guayaquil, Ecuador – A vehicle exploded outside a busy shopping mall in Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil, on Tuesday, leaving one person dead and several others injured, authorities confirmed. The incident has sparked alarm across the city and raised concerns over public safety.

Interior Minister John Reimberg revealed that a second vehicle containing explosives was discovered nearby but did not detonate. The authorities quickly neutralized it, and police are conducting controlled detonations while gathering evidence from the scene. “The devices were professionally made by criminal groups aiming to create chaos,” Reimberg said in a post on X.

Surveillance footage from traffic cameras captured the moment the first vehicle caught fire, followed by a massive explosion. Flames and thick smoke were seen engulfing the car, frightening bystanders and shoppers nearby.

Guayas provincial governor Humberto Plaza promised swift action, stating, “We will hunt down those who carried out this act of terrorism. They will be caught and face full legal consequences.” Residents have been advised to avoid the area while investigations are ongoing.

Guayaquil, known as one of the most violent cities in Ecuador, has seen a series of violent incidents in recent weeks. Last month, a vehicle exploded outside the city’s regional jail, though no one was harmed. Additionally, last week, President Daniel Noboa’s car was attacked by protesters who threw rocks, shattering its windows.

Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the latest attack and are working to ensure the safety of residents in the area.

#Global