Today, the U.S. Department of State announced the designation of Chone Killers as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).
Chone Killers is an Ecuadorian criminal group that has carried out numerous attacks targeting civilians, law enforcement officers, and government officials, including high‑profile assassinations. The organization originated as a splinter faction of Los Choneros – a designated FTO and SDGT – before forming as an independent group in 2020.
The Department of State’s action reflects ongoing efforts to counter illicit drug trafficking and disrupt financing of violent extremist organizations in the region.
The designation becomes effective upon publication in the Federal Register and is issued under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224.
