News Desk

Five individuals associated with one of Ecuador’s largest criminal organizations have been sentenced to prison for the killing of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio last year.

Villavicencio, a former journalist and member of Ecuador’s national assembly, was shot and killed after leaving a campaign event in Quito in August.

Carlos Angulo, allegedly the leader of the Los Lobos gang, and Laura Castilla were given substantial prison terms of 34 years and eight months for planning the assassination. Additionally, two men and one woman received 12-year sentences for aiding the hit squad.

According to prosecutors, Angulo, known as “The Invisible,” orchestrated the murder from his prison cell in Quito, although he denied the accusations and claimed to be falsely blamed. Castilla was accused of coordinating the logistical aspects of the assassination, including providing weapons, money, and motorcycles to the perpetrators.

The trial involved testimony from over 70 witnesses, including a crucial informant who revealed that the gang was offered over $200,000 to carry out the assassination. Villavicencio, known for his anti-corruption advocacy, had received death threats leading up to the attack but continued his campaign until he was ambushed and killed by a group of assailants outside a school in northern Quito.

While the sentencing brought some relief to Villavicencio’s widow, Veronica Sarauz, she emphasized that it marked just the beginning of a long journey to uncover the full truth behind her husband’s murder.