Ecuador Declares New State of Exception in Eight Provinces and Three Cantons, Curfew in Four Coastal Provinces

On September 15, 2026, President Daniel Noboa issued Executive Decree 498, declaring a state of exception across eight provinces and three cantons of Ecuador. This measure, valid for 60 days, began immediately upon its issuance and will remain in effect until November 14, 2026. The provinces included are El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Pichincha, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. Additionally, the cantons of Camilo Ponce Enríquez in Azuay, Las Naves in Bolívar, and La Maná in Cotopaxi are also under this state of exception.

During the 60-day state of exception, certain constitutional rights are suspended. These include the rights to the inviolability of domicile and correspondence. This means that authorities may conduct searches and enter homes without prior judicial order or the homeowner's authorization under specified conditions. The limitation on the inviolability of correspondence is also permitted for investigation purposes as outlined in the decree.

The primary objective of this declaration, as stated by the Executive, is to restore and maintain public order, strengthen internal protection, and ensure citizen security. It also aims to prevent and confront criminal and violent activities. To achieve these goals, the decree mandates the employment of the Armed Forces in coordination with the National Police in all areas under the state of exception.

Furthermore, the decree authorizes the temporary requisition of lawful goods and services deemed strictly necessary to maintain the operations of the security forces and fulfill the objectives of the declaration, while respecting the rights and guarantees of the population. The Ministries of Defense and Interior, along with the National Police and Armed Forces, are responsible for the execution of Executive Decree 498.

Curfew Measures in Specific Regions

In addition to the broader state of exception, a separate curfew measure has been implemented with a different duration and territorial scope. This mobility restriction will be applied only in the provinces of El Oro, Guayas, Los Ríos, and Manabí. It will be in effect from September 17 to September 30, 2026, daily between 00:00 (midnight) and 05:00. During these curfew hours, the right to freedom of transit is suspended in these four provinces, and no safe-conduct passes will be issued. Exemptions to the curfew include workers from public and private health establishments and services, security forces, and risk management services.

Focus on Pichincha and Quito

Pichincha province, which includes the capital city Quito, is among the areas under the state of exception. The decision to include Pichincha is attributed to the persistence of criminal structures in Quito and the security risks they pose. Quito is identified as a strategic point for organized crime activities, including micro-trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, organized robbery, and money laundering. The government had previously implemented the Quito Protection Plan on August 3, deploying 4,000 police and military personnel. According to Ministry of Interior figures, Quito saw a reduction of over 20% in crimes and over 12% in criminality during August 2026. However, between January and July 2026, Quito also registered 940 disappearance reports, with 842 people located, 43 still missing, and 55 found deceased. It is important to note that the curfew established in Executive Decree 498 does not apply to Pichincha.

This state of exception will remain in effect during the upcoming holidays for Día de los Difuntos and the Independence of Cuenca.

What This Means for Expats

Foreign residents in Ecuador, particularly those in the affected provinces and cantons, should be aware of the implications of this state of exception. While the measure is national in scope, its direct impact varies by location. If you reside in El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Pichincha, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, or the cantons of Camilo Ponce Enríquez (Azuay), Las Naves (Bolívar), or La Maná (Cotopaxi), be prepared for increased military and police presence. The suspension of rights to inviolability of domicile and correspondence means that authorities may conduct searches without prior judicial order under the conditions specified in the decree. It is advisable to carry identification at all times and cooperate with security forces.

For expats living in El Oro, Guayas, Los Ríos, or Manabí, the curfew from 00:00 to 05:00 between September 17 and September 30, 2026, is a direct restriction on movement. During these hours, you must remain indoors unless you are part of the exempted essential services. No safe-conduct passes will be issued for general transit during the curfew. For those in Pichincha, including Quito, while the state of exception applies, the curfew does not. However, the increased security presence and potential for searches remain relevant. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating daily life during this period. Staying informed through official channels and local news is recommended.

Sources: eluniverso.com; primicias.ec; primicias.ec.

Image: AI-generated illustration.