Ecuadorian authorities confirmed on Wednesday that explosive devices detonated on two bridges along major routes on the country’s coast, in a surge of attacks following a deadly car bombing in Guayaquil the previous day. The incidents have heightened concerns over public safety and infrastructure security in Ecuador.

Infrastructure Minister Roberto Luque stated on social media platform X that the attacks were intended to disrupt traffic and sow fear. “We are deployed at the sites, working on a damage assessment to determine the current state of these structures,” he said, emphasizing that the government is actively monitoring the situation to prevent further incidents.

Context: Rising Violence in Ecuador

The bridge explosions come just a day after a car bomb outside a shopping mall in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, killed one person and injured several others. Authorities also discovered a second vehicle containing explosives nearby, which was successfully deactivated before it could detonate.

Experts warn that these coordinated attacks reflect a worrying escalation in criminal violence, potentially linked to organized crime, drug trafficking networks, or other illicit groups operating along Ecuador’s Pacific coast.

Government Response and Public Safety Measures

In response to the attacks, Ecuadorian security forces have increased patrols and checkpoints near critical infrastructure, including bridges, highways, and urban centers. Minister Luque and other officials are coordinating with local law enforcement to assess structural damage and ensure that transportation routes remain safe for public use.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant, avoid areas under investigation, and report any suspicious activity. Emergency response teams are actively working to repair damaged bridges and prevent further disruptions to traffic and commerce.

Implications for Ecuador’s Security and Economy

Ecuador relies heavily on its coastal transportation networks for trade, tourism, and daily commuting. The recent explosive attacks on key bridges could have serious implications for economic activity and public confidence if such incidents continue. Analysts emphasize the need for stronger infrastructure security measures, intelligence-led policing, and regional cooperation to prevent criminal groups from targeting public assets.

This wave of violence underscores the growing challenges Ecuador faces in combating organized crime and maintaining public safety in densely populated urban and coastal areas.