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'Otavalo is in total chaos' - 43 detained and dozens injured in violent clashes amid national strike in Ecuador *DISTRESSING*

'Otavalo is in total chaos' - 43 detained and dozens injured in violent clashes amid national strike in Ecuador *DISTRESSING*

"Clashes erupted on the streets of Otavalo, leading to several injuries and at least 43 arrests on Tuesday as protesters tried to block an army convoy delivering aid to Imbabura, amid a strike over the diesel subsidy removal. Footage shows Peguche community health centre overwhelmed as dozens of injured protesters flood in, seeking treatment for wounds reportedly caused by tear gas, rubber pellets and live bullets. "You can't imagine how serious it is, how people are being transported in trucks to the hospital. The truth is they are attacking us," claimed one doctor. Doctors reported that citizens arrived with open wounds, fractures, cranial trauma, nerve damage and chest injuries. "In Otavalo hospital there are patients who have practically been held," the doctor added. "Cotacachi hospital, and I know in Ibarra they are also receiving these patients without discrimination. [...] Otavalo is currently in total chaos." Doctors and volunteers at the Peguche community centre issued an urgent call on social media for additional medical personnel, overwhelmed by the influx of injured demonstrators amid intense police and military crackdowns. Four weeks into the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador-led strike, President Daniel Noboa's government launched an operation to clear roadblocks in Imbabura, the epicenter of protests against the diesel subsidy removal that began on September 22, 2025. However, military forces were 'ambushed' by civilians, resulting in a major confrontation between security forces and protesters in Otavalo. Interior Minister John Reimberg reported on social media that no fatalities were recorded, contrary to earlier reports."