In a twist that surprises absolutely no one, Ecuadorian prosecutors have charged a former interior minister and six other individuals with involvement in the 2023 assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. Because when a journalist-turned-politician who loudly alleges government-cartel collusion ends up dead, the investigation naturally leads right back to the halls of power.

José Serrano, the ex-minister, and Wilmer 'Pipo' Chavarria, the head of the Los Lobos cartel, are among the accused. Pipo, who faked his own death last year, was captured in Spain - because nothing says 'innocent' like faking your own demise. Five others linked to the gang were already jailed in 2024 for the hit, which occurred at a campaign rally in Quito, just days before the election.

Villavicencio, a fearless anti-corruption crusader, had been given a security detail after receiving death threats. Because in Ecuador, as in many places, speaking truth to power is a hazardous occupation. He was one of the few candidates daring to suggest that organised crime and government officials were in cahoots. Shocking, we know.

President Daniel Noboa, who won the election after Villavicencio's death, has since taken a hardline military approach to crime gangs. Because nothing solves systemic corruption like a good old-fashioned show of force.

The five convicted in 2024 were the orchestrators. Their alleged gunman was shot dead at the scene, and six other suspects conveniently met their end in prison while awaiting trial. Justice, Ecuadorian style.

The seven newly charged individuals are accused of indirect roles in the killing, many with ties to Los Lobos, or 'The Wolves' - one of the nation's most powerful gangs, which has deep connections to Mexico's Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Five are now fugitives.

Serrano and Xavier Jordán are in the US; former assemblyman Ronny Aleaga is in Venezuela; and Pipo remains in Spain, with an extradition request pending. The Attorney General's Office has asked Interpol to issue red notices, which is like sending a strongly worded letter to the world's most wanted.

Ángel Esteban Aguilar, aka 'Lobo Menor', was arrested in Mexico City in March and returned to Ecuador. He previously served 20 years for murdering Serrano's brother, but was granted parole. Because why keep a known murderer locked up when he can be out and about, allegedly helping to assassinate presidential candidates?

Also accused is senior Los Lobos member Luis Arboleda. Pre-trial hearings are underway, and a judge will decide if there's enough to proceed to trial. We'll keep you posted on whether justice actually prevails.

In the meantime, Ecuador's prime location between Colombia and Peru, the world's top cocaine producers, makes it a key transit point for the illicit drug trade. Los Lobos uses corruption and violence to control supply routes, and apparently, to influence politics. Who knew crime and politics could be so intertwined?