Escape of notorious drug lord “Fede” from Guayas prison raises questions of complicity and security failures.

A prison break involving one of Ecuador’s most notorious criminals, alias “Fede,” has sparked nationwide outrage and prompted immediate actions by President Daniel Noboa. The escape of Rolando Federico Gómez Quinde, leader of the Los Águilas criminal organization, from the Guayaquil Litoral Penitentiary on June 20, 2025, has raised concerns about security and possible complicity among prison staff.

A High-Profile Escape

Alias “Fede” had been serving time in the Litoral Penitentiary after his arrest in January 2025. He was captured in a raid where authorities seized a massive cocaine shipment valued at $4.6 million. His escape came just days before a crucial hearing in his drug trafficking case. The escape itself was highly orchestrated, with “Fede” reportedly disguised in military uniform to evade detection.

On the night of his breakout, “Fede” had also submitted a letter to Judge Vicente Hidalgo requesting copies of his case proceedings. The letter indicated his plans to receive further court notifications via email, a detail that has drawn attention in light of his sudden disappearance.

Despite the prison being under military control, “Fede” managed to slip away undetected, fueling suspicions that insiders were involved in facilitating his escape. The public outcry was swift, with many questioning how such an operation could have occurred in one of the most tightly monitored facilities in Ecuador.

Presidential Response

President Daniel Noboa reacted quickly to the escape, describing it as an act of “treason.” In a post on the social media platform X, the president ordered an investigation into the escape, directing authorities to arrest anyone involved in facilitating “Fede’s” escape. Noboa’s statement highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that “Fede,” as a high-profile criminal, is now considered a military target.

The National Comprehensive Care Service (SNAI) acted promptly, arresting several prison staff suspected of complicity in the escape. The SNAI reported that these arrests were made “in flagrante delicto,” meaning those arrested were caught in the act of assisting “Fede” in his escape.

The Arrests

Following the escape, a judge in Guayas ordered the pretrial detention of 22 individuals in connection with the incident. These arrests included military personnel, prison officials, and others allegedly involved in the escape. The authorities are now focused on determining the full extent of the complicity involved and whether the escape was a coordinated effort between prison staff and criminal associates.

The Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing prison personnel to uncover how the escape was planned and executed. There are still many unanswered questions as to how “Fede” managed to evade detection, despite the heightened security measures in place.

The Fallout from the Escape

Alias “Fede” is no stranger to the authorities. He had been arrested numerous times before, with charges ranging from murder to drug trafficking. His criminal career spans several years, and he is known to have led multiple operations tied to organized crime groups in Ecuador. His escape has not only embarrassed the prison system but has also put a spotlight on the ongoing issue of corruption within Ecuador’s prison system.

The escape also raises broader questions about the state of the country’s security infrastructure. The involvement of military personnel and prison officials has left many wondering how deep the corruption runs within the system. Noboa’s government is now under pressure to address these systemic issues and restore faith in the country’s ability to manage high-risk prisoners.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the escape continues, with the authorities focusing on the roles played by military personnel, prison officials, and other individuals involved. The National Police have issued a nationwide manhunt, and there are indications that they may use force to apprehend him due to his status as a high-profile criminal target.

The Larger Context

“Fede’s” escape is not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of issues within Ecuador’s prison system. The country has faced persistent challenges with overcrowding, corruption, and the influence of criminal gangs within the prison system. This escape has only intensified calls for prison reform and greater oversight of detention centers across the country.