For decades, the Golden Triangle, a region wedged between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos along the Mekong River, has been synonymous with opium production, organised crime, and rebel militias. In recent years, in the northern part of Laos, the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has come under the control of Chinese casino mogul Zhao Wei, since his Hong Kong registered company, Kings Romans, leased the land for 99 years.
In January, Ecuador experienced a surge of violence, prompting swift responses from both local and international actors. The United States pledged substantial aid to bolster Ecuador’s security infrastructure, marking a significant collaboration. However, this cooperation differs from the historic Plan Colombia due to distinct challenges Ecuador faces, including its role as a transit corridor for drug trafficking.
Daniel Noboa, Ecuador’s new president, is facing severe challenges with drug-related violence escalating. Gang wars have intensified following gangster ‘Fito’s’ escape, resulting in numerous attacks, including a notably violent incident at TC Television. Noboa declared a state of emergency, involved the military, and won unprecedented parliamentary support despite lacking a majority. With Ecuador becoming an international drug hub, his militarized strategy and international cooperation are crucial to his presidency’s success.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro unveils a 10-year anti-drug policy aiming to reduce cocaine production by 43% through “oxygen” (economic alternatives for coca farmers) and “asphyxiation” (fighting trafficking networks). This plan’s success links to Petro’s “Total Peace” initiative to end violence. Security, investments, and political stability are vital for success.
The European drug trafficking scene has undergone a plethora of changes in the last decade. Some argue that Galicia reflects this constant evolution of increasingly influential organized crime gangs that take advantage of globalization to better manage local markets.
