Ecuador Takes Action for Safety

Quito, Jun 4 (Prensa Latina) In line with recent promises by Ecuador s President Rafael Correa to build a "Weapon-free Ecuador," the government began intensifying measures Monday in all parts of the country to combat crime and guarantee citizen security.

Cabinet Minister Gustavo Larrea announced more police and military operations to remove weapons from the hands of criminals and more patrols on roads, streets, squares and other places with high levels of crime.

Larrea reminded listeners that illegal weapon possession is punishable with up to five years in jail and called for handing them in at the nearest police station.

The plan includes raids and confiscation of every armory, detention of their owners, a national weapons ban and a firm hand on trafficking.

The official finally called for popular support to fight crime and construct a peaceful, democratic and safe society.

The statements follow a recent incident where stray bullets killed six children in Guayaquil.