Survivors of US Maritime Strikes Allege Abduction and Torture

Hernán Flores, captain of the La Negra Francisca Duarte II, described the March 17 attack as a sudden, violent encounter. According to Flores, a drone struck his vessel, causing severe injuries to his crew and forcing them into the water. Survivors reported being intercepted by a blue boat marked with the word "spear," where they were handcuffed and held on a scorching deck for over 24 hours. They were later transferred to the custody of the El Salvadoran Coast Guard before being returned to Ecuador.

Legal representatives for the victims argue that these actions meet the criteria for enforced disappearance. Fernando Bastias Robayo, an attorney with the Human Rights Council, stated that the forced boarding, destruction of property, and subsequent incommunicado detention constitute psychological torture. Survivors like Sebastián Palacios recount lasting trauma, stating they were treated like animals while being held without due process.

US Southern Command has deflected inquiries regarding these incidents, referring questions to Ecuadorian authorities. Meanwhile, the broader campaign continues to draw condemnation. With the death toll now estimated between 180 and 182, human rights organizations are calling on Congress to intervene. Despite the mounting evidence of civilian casualties and allegations of war crimes, legislative efforts to halt the strikes remain stalled in a Republican-controlled Congress.