A shocking act of violence in Ecuador has once again raised concerns about the safety of judicial officials in the country. A criminal court judge was shot and killed in broad daylight while traveling to the gym, reportedly without her assigned security protection.
The attack has triggered national outrage and renewed fears about growing violence against judges and prosecutors in Ecuador.
Ecuador Judge Shot Dead on Way to Gym
Lady Gissela Pachar Huanga was fatally shot on May 11 in Machala.
According to Ecuador’s Council of the Judiciary of Ecuador, Judge Pachar was attacked while traveling in a vehicle on her way to the gym.
Authorities say the shooting happened in broad daylight, shocking residents and members of the legal community.
Judge Served in Criminal Court
Judge Pachar worked in Ecuador’s criminal judicial system.
According to the judiciary council, she served as a judge in the criminal judicial unit and handled serious criminal cases.
Her death has been described as a direct attack on Ecuador’s justice system.
In an official statement, the judiciary council said the crime represents a serious attack on justice and the rule of law in the country.
Judge Had Reportedly Received Threats
Investigators say Judge Pachar had previously received threats linked to her work.
Authorities also confirmed that she had earlier been granted protective security measures.
However, at the time of the fatal shooting, those security protections were reportedly not in place.
This detail has raised serious questions about the implementation of security measures for high-risk judicial officials.
Judiciary Calls for Full Investigation
Following the killing, Ecuador’s judiciary council demanded an immediate and thorough investigation.
Officials urged law enforcement to:
- Identify everyone involved in the attack
- Arrest all suspects connected to the shooting
- Ensure those responsible are fully prosecuted
- Strengthen protection for judicial officials
The council also stressed that judges cannot perform their duties under threats or violence.
Violence Against Judges Rising in Ecuador
The killing of Judge Pachar is part of a growing pattern of violence against legal officials in Ecuador.
According to human rights reports, at least 16 judges and prosecutors have been killed in Ecuador since 2022.
This alarming trend has become a major concern as organized crime and cartel-related violence continue to impact the country.
Machala Community Left in Shock
Residents of Machala, located in El Oro Province, have been left stunned by the public assassination.
The attack took place in one of the city’s public areas during daytime hours, creating fear among local citizens and government officials alike.
Growing Security Crisis in Ecuador
Ecuador has faced increasing violence in recent years, with judges, prosecutors, police officers, and public officials becoming frequent targets.
Experts say protecting members of the justice system is critical for maintaining:
- Judicial independence
- Public trust in law enforcement
- Fair access to justice
- Democratic stability
Judge Pachar’s death has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger security protections.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate who was behind the attack and whether it was connected to cases handled by Judge Pachar.
No arrests have been publicly announced so far.
As Ecuador mourns the loss of another judicial official, many are calling for stronger action to stop violence against those who uphold the law.
