On October 8, 2025, in Ecuador, President Daniel Noboa’s convoy was surrounded by about 500 protesting citizens on Tuesday, October 7. The protestors threw rocks and even attacked the vehicles, leading to the discovery of what appeared to be gunshot marks on the cars after the incident. Five individuals were subsequently arrested by the police.
Ecuador’s Minister of Environment and Energy, Inés Manzano, stated on Tuesday that the rock-throwing incident has been identified as an attempted assassination, resulting in the detention of five individuals. Investigations revealed gunshot-like marks on Noboa’s vehicle, although the president himself was unharmed.
The President’s office announced that the arrested individuals will face charges related to terrorism and attempted assassination.
A video released by the presidential palace showed people throwing rocks along the route, causing cracks on the car windows. Additionally, a photo released by the palace displayed shattered car windows and severely cracked windshields.
Following the attack, approximately 77 kilometers away in Cuenca, President Noboa addressed a student event and stated that his government will not tolerate such behavior. He urged, “Do not emulate those who try to prevent us from attending this event and attempt to attack us. In the new Ecuador, such acts of aggression will not be tolerated, and everyone is equal before the law.”
The incident stemmed from Noboa announcing the cancellation of fuel subsidies in September, which triggered protests and strikes among the population.
The National Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE), which initiated the protests, accused the police and military of launching planned violent actions against the crowd upon the president’s arrival, resulting in multiple casualties, including elderly women.
CONAIE claimed on social media that “at least five members have been arbitrarily detained,” accompanied by a video showing a traditional-dressed female being escorted by four police officers wearing bulletproof vests and covered faces.
Sixteen days ago, the National Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador initiated strike actions, organizing marches and blocking roads to protest the government’s decision to cancel diesel subsidies. Protesters argued that the subsidy cancellation would increase the cost of living, disproportionately affecting small farmers and indigenous communities.
After canceling fuel subsidies, Noboa’s government implemented emergency measures in multiple provinces to maintain order. The government stated that eliminating the subsidy could save approximately $1.1 billion annually, with the funds being redirected to compensate small farmers and transportation workers.
The attack has drawn condemnation from some foreign governments, including Costa Rica, Honduras, and Panama.
On Tuesday night, another protest took place in the capital city of Quito, with around 200 people demonstrating against Noboa’s government. Police intervened to stop the procession, leading to the eventual peaceful dispersal of the crowd.
(This article references reporting from Reuters)