The police in Ecuador announced the arrest of 68 individuals who attacked and attempted to take control of a hospital.

The individuals were attempting to take control of the facilities of a hospital in Yaguachi Guayas, southwest Ecuador.

The authorities reported the confiscation of weapons and drugs during the ongoing war between drug cartels and security forces in the country, as reported by AFP. 

The Ecuadorian authorities have closed hundreds of these centers, which officials claim are unqualified to provide care for patients and are used by criminal gangs as a cover for their illegal activities.

Ecuador recently experienced a wave of violence triggered by the escape of drug trafficker Adolfo Masis, known as "Vito," from prison. President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency and announced a war against the gangs.

The number of criminal gangs in Ecuador is estimated to be around 20, with approximately 20,000 members. Their activities have expanded in recent years, involving drug trafficking to the United States and Europe, according to AFP.