Core Viewpoint - Ecuador has experienced a significant increase in prison violence, with recent riots resulting in at least 17 deaths, highlighting ongoing issues with gang conflicts within the prison system [1] Group 1: Incident Details - A riot occurred in a prison in Esmeraldas province on September 25, resulting in at least 17 fatalities due to suspected gang-related conflicts [1] - This incident marks the second severe prison riot in Ecuador within four days, following a previous riot on September 22 that left 14 dead and 14 injured [1] Group 2: Underlying Causes - The riots are reportedly linked to organized crime groups outside the prison demanding the elimination of rival gang members within the facility [1] - The Ecuadorian government attributes the unrest to territorial disputes among gangs operating in the prisons [1] Group 3: Broader Context - Since February 2021, nearly 600 inmates have died in prison riots across Ecuador, indicating a deteriorating security situation in the country [1] - The Ecuadorian authorities have committed to intensifying efforts to combat crime and improve prison conditions [1]

Core Viewpoint - A prison riot occurred in Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico, resulting in 7 deaths and 11 injuries, highlighting ongoing issues with organized crime and overcrowding in Mexican prisons [1] Group 1: Incident Details - The riot was triggered by inmates resisting a criminal group known as "The Shadow," which has been extorting and attacking prisoners within the Tuxpan prison [1] - Inmates from different gangs clashed, leading to arson that endangered the safety of other prisoners [1] - The Veracruz Public Safety Department reported that order was restored by deploying police and conducting a multi-agency operation [1] Group 2: Prison Conditions - The Tuxpan prison was reported to be overcrowded, housing 778 inmates as of June, while its designed capacity is only 735 [1] - The Veracruz state government reiterated its commitment to improving prison governance and safety conditions in response to the riot [1]