Chaos in Ecuador amid alleged coup attempt
Ecuador has declared a state of emergency after police stormed Congress in the capital Quito. President Rafael Correa denounces what he says is a coup attempt against his country, and fearing for his life, he has sought refuge in a hospital.
Issued on: Modified:
“It is a coup attempt led by the opposition and certain sections of the armed forces and the police,” Correa told local television, accusing the police of trying to break into a room where he had fled.
The country has declared a state of emergency, enabling the military to take over the functions of the police that are taking part in the rebellion.
Dozens of police units took over government buildings in the country's other two main cities, Guayaquil and Cuenca.
However, the armed forces chief Ernesto Gonzales, threw his support behind Correa after a group of soldiers seized the main airport of the capital. "We live in a state which is governed by laws, and we are subordinate to the highest authority which is the president of the republic," he said.
The leftist Correa was re-elected last year to a second term as president of the country of some 14.5 million people, which is bordered by Colombia and Peru.
Peru has closed its border with Ecuador and has called on Colombia to do the same until Correa's authority has been restored.
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning
Subscribe