World

28 crew members from sunken vessels arrive in Ecuador

Relatives of the crew from two vessels detained in the Pacific demand justice and deny links to organized crime.

6 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: 28 crew members from sunken vessels arrive in Ecuador — Archive photoPhoto: Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos · Flickr · BY

Twenty-eight men, from two vessels, have arrived in Ecuador after being detained by U.S. forces in coordination with Ecuadorian authorities in the Pacific Ocean. According to reports, these crew members are associated with a criminal group, but their families insist that they are engaged in fishing and are calling for justice regarding the disappearance of eight colleagues.

The crew members, allegedly linked to the criminal gang Los Choneros, were released after their detention, although the habeas corpus process is still ongoing. This process seeks to clarify responsibilities in an alleged case of 'enforced disappearance' and address practices at sea, according to lawyer Bastidas.

Reports indicated that the released individuals were taken to a police unit upon their arrival in Ecuador. The situation has sparked protests from relatives who have insisted that the men are not involved in illegal activities.

U.S. authorities have committed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the detention and sinking of the vessels involved. Families continue to demand a more thorough investigation into these events.

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