Five jailed for Ecuador presidential candidate's murder

Five individuals associated with Ecuador's Los Lobos gang have been jailed for the 2023 murder of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

Gang leader Carlos Angulo and Laura Castilla received 34-year sentences for orchestrating the hit. Erick Ramirez, Victor Flores, and Alexandra Chimbo were given 12-year sentences for aiding the attack.

Angulo, already imprisoned on firearms charges, allegedly ordered the murder, while Castilla handled logistics. Villavicencio, an anti-corruption activist, was shot after a rally in Quito. Despite receiving death threats, he continued campaigning.

The investigation into who contracted Los Lobos remains ongoing. Villavicencio's widow welcomed the ruling but seeks further justice.