American special forces recently collaborated with Ecuadorian troops in a joint operation to dismantle a suspected criminal network run by an alleged narco-terrorist group along Ecuador’s coast. The mission, called Lanza Marina, targeted a facility believed to support high-speed boats associated with Los Choneros, a prominent Ecuadorian criminal organization, according to two U.S. officials who spoke anonymously to CBS News. The American forces provided advisory support to their Ecuadorian counterparts during the operation, part of a broader effort to combat trafficking networks that use fast maritime routes.
The U.S. Department of Defense has historically utilized various authorities, such as security cooperation agreements and training programs, to enable U.S. special operation forces to assist foreign forces. For example, “127 Echo missions” under 10 U.S.C. § 127e allow the U.S. military to aid foreign forces in counterterrorism efforts. These missions, overseen by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, require the approval of the defense secretary and congressional notification. President Trump previously relaxed restrictions to authorize airstrikes and special operations beyond conventional battlegrounds, expanding targeting parameters.
In March, the United States and Ecuador conducted joint military operations against designated terrorist organizations in Ecuador, coinciding with U.S. strikes on drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific. This initiative began in September 2025, resulting in 47 strikes and 163 casualties. Marine Gen. Francis Donovan, commander of U.S. Southern Command, praised the Ecuadorian armed forces for their ongoing efforts against narco-terrorists in the country.
While the recent operation details were not disclosed for security reasons, U.S. Southern Command highlighted efforts to provide advanced training to partner nation law enforcement and military personnel for counternarcotics and counter-terrorism operations. Los Choneros was previously designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, with legal and financial implications.
Los Choneros, established in the 1990s, has grown into a transnational network influencing escalating violence in Ecuador and beyond. With an estimated 12,000 members, the organization has affiliations with global criminal networks, including Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel and Albanian groups. Despite leadership targeting, Los Choneros’ decentralized structure has enabled its expansion and adaptation across Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru.
[Context: Los Choneros is a notorious criminal organization in Ecuador with significant international ties and impact.] [Fact Check: The article is based on information obtained from U.S. officials and public statements by military commanders.]
