In Ecuador, travelers from Guayaquil to Cuenca are often robbed by armed bandits, Cuenca High Life reports on May 28.
The attacks mainly target people traveling from the Guayaquil airport and terminal. Journalists suggested that this may be because travelers carry suitcases full of things from trips abroad. Sometimes robberies are committed without the victims realizing it, and other times robberies are brutal with the use of weapons, especially at night.
Depending on the frequency of thefts, several “red zones” have been identified. One of them is “kilometer 26” of Via Duran Bolice. Drivers traveling from Guayaquil to Cuenca via Molleturo or Cañar must use this route. It is a two-lane highway with long stretches, without lighting and with many speed cameras. Thieves take advantage of drivers slowing down to avoid speeding tickets. At kilometer 27, criminals rob drivers who stop to buy fruit, food or drinks, while thieves steal their cars and escape. One retailer reported that some business owners are only open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Another red zone is km. 33, between the parish of Thaura and El Mango. Residents of the area were informed that there is a speed radar at km 33, where drivers must reduce their speed and where they are intercepted by heavily armed criminals.
Cuenca tourism officials say fear of highway robberies is hurting tourism, as many people are afraid to travel from Guayaquil to Cuenca. That’s one reason many flights between Cuenca and Guayaquil don’t operate at full capacity, airport officials say.
On May 15, the prefectures of Azuay and Guayas delivered patrols to reinforce security.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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