The cocaine superhighway from Ecuador to Europe - the BBC reports on gangs and the police fightback

The BBC goes on patrol with Ecuador's police, who are grappling with a huge surge in drug crime.

Public-safety activity may bring road closures, restricted access, or a heightened law-enforcement presence. Stay informed and avoid the affected area unless directed.

This report is based on information from BBC World, monitored by Alert USA's verified emergency feed.

Residents may encounter road closures, restricted access, and a heightened public-safety presence in and around the affected area.

Recommended steps: stay informed via official sources; avoid the affected area; follow any instructions from local authorities; check on family and neighbors.

Alert USA is tracking this public-safety situation and will update this report as verified information becomes available.

Verified by Alert USA • BBC WORLD