Five Ecuadorian journalists received USB drives in the mail. Taking the flash drive, someone connected it to their computer. After that – an explosion. According to the police representative, the victim has minor injuries to his hand and face.

what is known

Judging by the available information, the targets of the criminals have been selected all over Ecuador and represent different publications. Fortunately, in other cases there was no explosion: someone decided not to connect the flash drive, someone did it wrong, and someone got rid of “hardware problems” that prevented the detonator from working. For example, an employee of the EXA FM radio station connected it to a computer using a cable with an adapter that did not have enough energy to set off the explosives.

It is unknown who is behind this malicious campaign. The Ecuadorian government publicly condemned the events, issuing a statement stating that it “categorically rejects all forms of violence against journalists and the media”. Fundamedios, an Ecuadorian press freedom organization, also issued a statement condemning the attacks and demanding that the government investigate the source of the bombs.

Ecuador’s Ministry of the Interior said the events sent “an absolutely clear message to silence journalists”.

Any attempt to intimidate journalists and freedom of expression is a heinous act that must be punished with the full force of justice.
– said the country’s government.

The same type of USB device was used in all five cases. The investigation continues.