Ecuador has closed its borders with Colombia and Peru for 72 hours in a measure taken by President Daniel Noboa to enhance security during the presidential elections. The closure, which began on Saturday and continues until Monday, aims to counter potential threats from organized crime groups that might disrupt the elections. While the land borders are shut to foreigners, Ecuadorian citizens and legal trade are allowed passage under the decree. The security measures include heightened military presence at key border locations and the militarization of ports to control drug trafficking routes. These actions follow a period of increased violence, where bands linked to Colombian criminals and Peruvian illegal miners are involved. In 2023, Ecuador experienced a surge in violence, partly due to its internal conflict against organized crime, with some of these groups declared terrorist organizations with ties to Mexican drug cartels. The border closure and security measures are set against the backdrop of a presidential race where incumbent Noboa, who seeks re-election, faces Luisa González, a correísta candidate.