Quito, July 15: Fernando Villavicencio, a prominent Ecuadorian presidential candidate and former journalist, was tragically assassinated last year in Quito. The attack occurred shortly after he left a campaign rally, leaving Villavicencio dead and thirteen others injured. His journalism career was marked by investigations into corruption and links between organized crime and politicians, which had earned him threats before his death.
Recently, Ecuadorian courts handed down significant sentences to five individuals involved in the assassination plot. Two key instigators, Carlos Angulo (“Invisible”) and Laura Castillo, were each sentenced to 34 years and eight months in prison. Angulo, despite being incarcerated at the time, orchestrated the murder via videoconference, while Castillo provided logistical support to the gunmen.
Additionally, three accomplices, Erick RamĂrez, VĂctor Flores, and Alexandra Chimbo, received 12-year prison terms for their roles in monitoring Villavicencio’s movements and facilitating the attack. The court also ordered substantial compensation payments totalling $100,000 from Angulo and Castillo to Villavicencio’s family, and $33,000 each from the other three defendants.
The sentencing has sparked public demonstrations in Quito, with supporters of Villavicencio demanding justice and honouring his memory. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the assassination and any further connections to organized crime or political motives. The verdict can be appealed by both the prosecution and the defence, underscoring ongoing efforts to uncover all aspects of this tragic event.