Ecuadorian Deputy and Wife Killed in Armed Attack at Circus
A shocking incident took place on Sunday night in Manta, Ecuador, where Cristhian Nieto, a deputy of the National Assembly for the Citizen Revolution movement, and his wife, Nicole Burgos, both social media influencers, were killed during an armed attack at a circus performance. This violent event is part of a growing trend of violence in the port city despite enhanced public security measures and a state of exception.
Cristhian Nieto, who also went by the pseudonym 'Cristhian Rescata,' was known for his social work with orphaned children, abandoned animals, and drug addicts. His wife, Nicole Burgos, was also a prominent figure on social media, using the handle 'Soy Pipo.' Tragically, Burgos was live-streaming on TikTok when the attack occurred, capturing the terror and chaos that ensued.
The attack happened when a group of armed men entered through the back of the circus tent and opened fire, targeting Nieto and Burgos. Over 12 bullet remains from a long gun were found at the scene. According to the police, the attack appeared to be directed specifically at Nieto and his wife.
Reaction and Ongoing Concerns
The National Assembly of Ecuador quickly issued a statement expressing their regret over the murders. Luisa González, president of the Citizen Revolution movement and former presidential candidate, condemned the escalating violence in the country and called for stronger measures to ensure public safety. 'The outrage and pain overcomes,' she said in her X account.
Manta, being a strategic port city, has been a hotspot for organized crime and drug trafficking. Recently, specialized units were dispatched to reinforce security in Manabí province following an increase in violent deaths. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for effective action against crime in Ecuador.
- Authorities are in the process of investigating the motives and perpetrators of this attack. Local media have been updating the public on this particular story, which has shocked the nation and drawn significant attention to the deteriorating security situation in the region.
- The former President Rafael Correa’s political movement, Citizen Revolution, voiced deep indignation over the act. The movement emphasized the importance of combating violence and ensuring a safer, fairer Ecuador. Meanwhile, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes and expressions of sorrow for Nieto and Burgos.
- This tragic event happens amid a state of internal armed conflict declared last January in Ecuador, and a recently renewed state of exception by President Daniel Noboa in May, affecting seven provinces including Manabí. The continued violence and frequency of such attacks call for even more stringent and sustained efforts to curb organized crime and improve public safety in Ecuador.
