Ecuador partnering with Blackwater founder in divisive nationwide crackdown on crime
CNN
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has announced a “strategic alliance” to fight organized crime with Erik Prince, the founder of the controversial private defense contractor formerly known as Blackwater.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has announced a “strategic alliance” to fight organized crime with Erik Prince, the founder of the controversial private defense contractor formerly known as Blackwater. Noboa, who launched a divisive military operation against criminal groups last year, posted a photo on X and Instagram showing him chatting with Prince at an office with an Ecuadorian flag in the background. “We have established a strategic alliance to strengthen our capabilities in the fight against narcoterrorism and the protection of our waters from illegal fishing,” Noboa wrote on Tuesday. “There is no truce. There is no retreat. We are moving forward,” he added. The president did not provide details on the partnership. CNN has reached out to the Ecuadorian presidency for more information. CNN has also asked the Ministry of Defense for information about the partnership and whether the Armed Forces are aware of or support the move. CNN also contacted Prince’s office for details about the meeting with Noboa.
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