Ecuador: Drug Operations Moving Away from Border Areas

From La Hora on June 4, 2013- Recent drug seizures have shown that drug activity in Ecuador is moving away from the traditional border areas to the interior of the country due to increased controls on the border. Between 2010 and 2012 it was common for drug seizures to take place in Esmeraldas and Sucumbios along the border. However, now drug producers have started growing plants in greenhouses and indoors, away from the border.  This technique has lowered the costs and risks associated with the production of drugs for both the producer and the consumer. These new drug production sites also allow for easier transportation of drugs. In addition to continuing to fight these drug producers, authorities are implementing more programs for addicts, considering the decriminalization of marijuana, and implementing prevention campaigns in schools and colleges. Read Article