Ecuador\’s drug king pledges US extradition
The path of “Fito” to the United States
From jailbreak to court verdict
Adolfo Macias, known as “Fito,” has agreed to extradition after a court in Quito dismissed the case Friday.
Key facts about the former crime boss
- He helms the Los Choneros gang, notorious for cocaine distribution and weapons smuggling.
- After escaping a maximum‑security prison in Guayaquil, the police orchestrated a massive operation that ended without shots.
- Authorities found him hiding in a bunker beneath floor tiles in a luxury home in Manta.
Government actions and incentives
President Daniel Noboa’s administration released “wanted” posters and offered a $1 million reward for tips that led to Fito’s capture.
Violent responses to the crackdown
Los Choneros reacted with car bombs, hostage‑taking of prison guards, and a television station hijack during a live broadcast.
Fito in the courtroom
During a Friday hearing, Fito attended via video from a Guayaquil prison. When a judge asked for his opinion, he replied: “Yes, I accept (extradition).”
Next steps in the transfer process
Given the defendant’s consent, the Quito court will now initiate the appropriate procedures. President Noboa must sign the official handover documents to complete the extradition.
Significance of the extradition
Macias would be the first Ecuadorian extradited by his country since the law was enacted last year following a referendum designed to strengthen the fight against criminal gangs.
