Permanent Security Operations Promised Again on Cuenca-Molleturo Highway After Robbery

Once again, the Azuay Governor’s Office is promising constant security checks along the Cuenca-Molleturo-El Empalme highway after yet another robbery.

What Happened This Time?

This latest incident happened at kilometer 90 of the highway, where a van was attacked. Governor Santiago Malo has announced plans to activate permanent operations and boost security measures through CAMEX patrols. He acknowledged, “What’s happening on this highway is really concerning. The other routes are under control, but this one worries us.”

The governor also mentioned that the robbery is under investigation. He reassured the public that the victims received immediate assistance and emphasized that the police have been instructed to act swiftly in such cases moving forward.

Interestingly, this robbery took place while the van was heading toward Guayaquil, which is a change from past incidents, where attacks usually happened on vehicles traveling from Guayaquil to Cuenca.

Driver’s Frightening Experience

The van driver shared his ordeal with Diario El Mercurio. While driving along kilometer 90, a car suddenly blocked the road. Passengers quickly told him not to stop, fearing it could be a trap. “I thought that if I stopped, they’d think I was part of the criminals,” the driver said.

When he chose to accelerate instead, the attackers opened fire, injuring him. Despite being wounded, he managed to drive to the Hierba Buena area, where he received medical attention.

The driver revealed that the lack of cell signal at kilometer 90 makes the spot a favorite for robbers. “There’s no service in that area, so they take advantage of it to attack vehicles. We’re easy targets,” he said.

Luckily, the bullet only grazed his lung, and he’s now in stable condition. But he’s hoping authorities will take real action to protect drivers like him in the future.

Source: El Mercurio.