Covert CIA Operation Linked to Mysterious Attacks on Ecuadorian Vessels

Survivors of a March incident described being targeted by small drones that either dropped munitions on their boats or crashed into them. Following their shipwrecks, victims reported being apprehended by armed men, hooded, and transported to El Salvador before being returned to Ecuador without explanation. Despite the intensity of these actions, no public evidence has surfaced linking the targeted crews to drug trafficking.

Former U.S. officials familiar with Latin American operations expressed confusion regarding the secrecy behind the CIA campaign, noting that the Trump administration has already publicly claimed responsibility for similar, highly criticized boat strikes. Amnesty International has also raised concerns regarding the January disappearance of the fishing boat Fiorella. Investigations reveal the vessel was under sustained surveillance by aircraft and drones bearing U.S. markings in the days leading up to its vanishing on January 20, leaving eight crew members missing.