The disorganized prison cell of José Adolfo Macías, leader of the Los Choneros gang, resembled a hotel room with its amenities, including a bathroom suite and a mini fridge. Soldiers filming the cell expressed disbelief at its luxury, noting Macías’ pet roosters and a mural warning prison staff. This situation highlights Ecuador’s prison system’s transformation into a stronghold for criminal groups, contributing to the country’s rising violence. Overcrowding, corruption, and inadequate oversight have enabled gangs like Los Choneros to exert control within prisons, leading to incidents of bribery and intimidation of prison staff. Ecuador’s incarceration policies and the demobilization of Colombian guerrilla groups have also contributed to the expansion of organized crime. Macías, a prominent figure within Los Choneros, escaped from prison, triggering widespread violence across the country. Despite government efforts to combat gang activity, including a state of emergency declaration and mass arrests, challenges persist due to systemic issues such as corruption and weak institutions. The militarization of law enforcement may not provide a sustainable solution without addressing underlying issues like corruption and external influences from drug cartels. As Ecuador grapples with its security crisis, plans for new prisons signal a continued effort to tackle criminality within the country.