World News
US labels Ecuadorian crime gang Los Tiguerones as a foreign terrorist group
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the designation in Quito and pledged to seek funding to dismantle regional criminal networks.
Latest update: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged to seek $45 million from Congress to dismantle regional terrorist groups following meetings in Quito.
The short version
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated the Ecuadorian gang Los Tiguerones as a foreign terrorist organization and specially designated global terrorist.[Fox News]
- Rubio stated the gang is tied to narcotics trafficking and finances violent criminal acts against civilians and law enforcement.[Fox News]
- The group previously carried out a live takeover of an Ecuadorian television station in 2024.[Fox News]
- During a meeting with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa in Quito, Rubio said he would seek $45 million in congressional funds to dismantle terrorist groups.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Los Tiguerones as a foreign terrorist organization and specially designated global terrorist.[Fox News]
- Rubio stated Los Tiguerones is connected to narcotrafficking and funds criminal acts targeting law enforcement and civilians.[Fox News]
- Los Tiguerones was responsible for the live takeover of an Ecuadorian television network in 2024.[Fox News]
- The announcement was made in Quito, where Rubio met with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa.[The Guardian]
- Rubio said he intends to request $45 million in additional funding from the US Congress to help dismantle terrorist groups.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the US Congress will approve the requested $45 million in funding to dismantle these groups remains to be determined.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.