Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, narrowly escaped harm on Tuesday after his convoy came under attack during a public event in the central part of the country.
The violent incident occurred while Noboa was inaugurating a water treatment plant, according to the Environment Minister, Ines Manzano. She disclosed that a crowd of about 500 people suddenly turned violent, pelting the president’s motorcade with stones and other projectiles.
“There are clear bullet marks on the president’s car,” Manzano confirmed while addressing journalists shortly after the attack. She commended the president’s composure, saying, “Thank God our president is strong and brave. He remains focused and continues his duties despite the challenges.”
Footage released by the government, reportedly captured from inside the convoy, showed a chaotic scene as protesters wrapped in flags hurled rocks and bricks at the vehicles. In the video, a voice could be heard shouting, “Cover your head! Cover your head!” as objects struck one of the SUVs, shattering its windows.
The attack comes amid widespread protests triggered by the government’s decision to increase diesel prices — a move that has stirred public outrage. Authorities have, however, suggested that criminal groups involved in drug trafficking may be taking advantage of the unrest to destabilize the nation.
Despite the violent episode, officials confirmed that President Noboa was unharmed and has continued his official engagements as planned.
